By Deborah Nnamdi
Two people were killed on Thursday following a violent clash between farmers and herders in Unguwar Dambo village, Birnin Kebbi Local Government Area of Kebbi State.
According to eyewitness accounts, tension had been building between the two groups before the incident. One resident, Alhaji Faruku, said the herders had earlier sent word to the farmers to hasten their harvest, claiming they needed to move their cattle through the farmlands.
However, when the farmers ignored the warning and went to their farms, they were reportedly attacked by some herders. One of the farmers, identified as Malam Sule, was killed in the assault.
The killing sparked outrage in the community, leading to a reprisal attack by the farmers, during which a Fulani herder, whose identity had not been confirmed as of press time, was also killed.
Faruku, who said his wife’s elder brother was among the victims, appealed to the authorities to intervene and end the recurring crisis between farmers and herders in the area.
“The problem is not new, and it’s well known to traditional rulers. We expect justice for the victims and lasting peace in the community,” he said.
When contacted, the Police in Kebbi State had yet to respond to inquiries regarding the incident..