Police in Niger State have confirmed that the death toll from the communal violence in Rafi Local Government Area has risen to 18 following fresh attacks. The crisis, which began on 29 June, has been linked to a longstanding land dispute between two communities in Godoro village.
Fresh Attacks Escalate Casualties
Providing an update on the situation, the police spokesperson in the state, Wasiu Abiodun, said the clash started at about 11:30 p.m. in Godoro village, Katako District, when suspected armed men shot and killed 25-year-old Ibrahim Musa. This killing triggered a reprisal by members of a local vigilante group, known as Yan Sakai, who blocked a road and allegedly killed 28-year-old Bashir Mazi.
According to Mr Abiodun, the violence escalated on 1 July at about 10 p.m. when police received reports that 15 persons were burnt to death after attackers allegedly set a two-bedroom house ablaze at Angwan-Baago, near Godoro village. Another person was killed at a different location during the attacks, bringing the total number of deaths to 18.
Investigations and Reconciliation Efforts
Mr Abiodun said investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend those responsible for the attacks. He added that a reconciliation committee headed by officials of the Rafi Local Government Council is working with security agencies and community leaders to address the underlying causes of the conflict.
The police spokesperson further disclosed that joint police and military patrol teams have been deployed to the affected communities to restore peace and prevent further violence. Authorities expressed optimism that the combined security operations and ongoing reconciliation efforts would help restore lasting peace to the area.
Background of the Conflict
PREMIUM TIMES had earlier reported that at least 48 villagers were killed in the clash at Tegina town, quoting residents who shared pictures of some of the dead and injured. However, the police stated at the time that they were still compiling casualty figures. The crisis reportedly stemmed from a longstanding land dispute between the two communities in Godoro village in the Rafi LGA.
Authorities continue to urge calm and call for cooperation from residents as security operations and mediation efforts proceed.
