A peaceful Friday prayer session turned deadly at the Jummat Mosque in Taraba State as a leadership dispute escalated into violent clashes that claimed two lives and left several worshippers injured.
What Triggered the Violence
The conflict emerged from a longstanding power struggle between two factions within the mosque community, each backing different candidates for the position of chief imam. Tensions had been brewing for weeks before finally exploding during the weekly Jummat prayers.
Chaos During Sacred Prayers
Eyewitnesses reported that the situation turned violent when arguments over who should lead the prayers escalated into physical confrontations. What began as shouting matches quickly transformed into a full-scale brawl, with worshippers using whatever objects they could find as weapons.
Casualties and Emergency Response
The violent confrontation resulted in:
- Two confirmed fatalities from severe injuries
- Multiple worshippers sustaining various degrees of injuries
- Emergency services rushing to the scene to evacuate casualties
- Local hospitals placed on alert to receive victims
Security Forces Intervene
Security personnel were quickly deployed to the mosque to restore order and prevent further escalation. The area around the worship center was cordoned off as authorities worked to separate the warring factions and ensure the safety of other worshippers.
Community Leaders Call for Calm
Prominent community figures and religious leaders have appealed for peace, urging both sides to embrace dialogue rather than violence. Many have expressed shock that such bloodshed could occur in a place of worship, especially during the sacred Friday prayers.
Investigation Underway
Local authorities have launched a full investigation into the incident, with promises to hold those responsible for the violence accountable. Police officials have assured the public that adequate security measures will be implemented to prevent future occurrences.
The tragic events at Jummat Mosque serve as a stark reminder of how leadership disputes within religious institutions can sometimes spiral into deadly confrontations, undermining the very principles of peace and unity that these institutions represent.
