At least 11 individuals have lost their lives and 31 huts have been reduced to ashes in Gululu village, situated within the Jahun and Miga local government areas of Jigawa State.
Daily Trust reports that the incident, which unfolded last Friday, has generated significant tension within the community.
Suleiman Abubakar Jahun, a Fulani elder who tragically lost five children, recounted the harrowing events.
“I was at home when I was informed about a confrontation between the Hausa and Fulani communities. Upon my arrival at the scene, I witnessed rampant killings that were both senseless and devastating.”
Abubakar stressed that his children were not involved in the conflict and were innocent victims of the violence.
He pleaded with the government for assistance, as he now bears the responsibility of caring for his 18 grandchildren.
Another victim, Amadu Garba Jahun, who suffered the loss of a child, stated that should similar incidents arise in the future, the community would refrain from seeking revenge. Instead, they would leave the matter in God’s hands.
Garba highlighted the community’s urgent desire for peace and justice, saying, “We’re not seeking revenge or attempting to take the law into our own hands. We simply want the authorities to fulfil their responsibilities and deliver justice.”
Daily Trust further reports that the Jigawa State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) has provided 25 bags of rice and N500,000 to the affected families.
SEMA also distributed five bags of rice and N100,000 to those who lost children in the violence.
Dr. Haruna Mairiga, Chairman of SEMA, attributed the conflict to theft by unidentified individuals.
He explained that the stolen goods were traced to a nearby settlement, which escalated tensions and resulted in loss of life and property.
Hon. Jamilu Muhammad Danmalam, Executive Chairman of Jahun Local Government Area, described the incident as a minor dispute that spiralled into violence.
He assured that the local government, in coordination with state authorities and security agencies, is committed to restoring peace and security.
Hon. Bilya Dauda Garbau, Executive Chairman of Miga Local Government, urged security agencies to intervene decisively.
He praised SEMA for its swift response and assistance to those affected.
On his part, the state’s Commissioner of Police, CP A.T. Abdullahi, announced that the government has established a committee to manage farmer-herder conflicts throughout the state.
According to him, the state police command is diligently working to ensure that all offenders are apprehended and held accountable.
He urged the communities to remain calm and not succumb to fear, assuring them that security agencies are striving to prevent further clashes.