Farmers/Herders Clash Leaves Several Dead in Kebbi State, Curfew Imposed

By: Zagazola Makama 

A violent clash between farmers and herders in Gulma Town, Argungu Local Government Area of Kebbi State has left several persons dead, prompting the deployment of security operatives and the imposition of a curfew in the area.

Security sources said the incident occurred on June 22 at about 1500 hours following a confrontation between a herder, identified as Yaron Buba Dogo, and a farmer, Alhaji Aminu Ala of Gulma Town.

According to the report, the herder allegedly led his cattle into a farmland where crops were destroyed, leading to an altercation between both parties.

During the confrontation, the farmer was reportedly stabbed in the neck with a knife and later died from the injuries sustained.

Following the development, angry youths were said to have mobilised and launched reprisal attacks in the area, during which the herder was traced and killed, with his body subsequently set ablaze.

The mob violence reportedly escalated as some irate youths went on the rampage, searching for members of the Fulani community in the area.

Security operatives, including the Area Commander (ACPOL) Argungu, Divisional Police Officer (SUPOL) Argungu, Police Mobile Force (PMF) personnel and other tactical teams, were deployed to restore order.

However, despite their intervention, the crowd was said to have overpowered security personnel in parts of the town.

During the violence, four persons identified as innocent Fulani residents were killed and burnt beyond recognition, while several others were injured or displaced.

Security sources said one Fulani woman and four men were rescued by PMF operatives and taken to safety at the Argungu Police Station.

Authorities confirmed that a joint security operation was ongoing to restore calm and prevent further attacks, while the state government has imposed a curfew in the affected area.

Police said investigations had commenced to identify and arrest the leaders behind the mob violence.

The situation, according to security sources, has since been brought under relative control.