One Killed, Homes Burnt as Land Dispute Turns Deadly in Niger State
By Zagazola Makama
A lingering land dispute between two communities in Agaie Local Government Area of Niger State has turned deadly after an attack left one person dead, farmlands destroyed and houses set ablaze.
Security sources told Zagazola Makama that the incident was reported at about 4:00 p.m. on July 11 by Saba Muhammad of Ejingi Village.
According to the sources, the violence stemmed from a long-standing boundary dispute between Ejingi and Kakpiyi communities.
The attackers, allegedly from Kakpiyi community and armed with dangerous weapons, reportedly invaded Ejingi Village, destroyed farm crops, set three rooms on fire and fatally shot Muhammed Alfa, 27.
Police operatives promptly visited the scene, where the victim’s body was evacuated to the General Hospital, Agaie, for autopsy. However, the corpse was later released to the family on request for burial in accordance with Islamic rites.
Security personnel restored normalcy to the affected community, while one suspect has been arrested in connection with the attack.
Police said investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend other individuals involved in the violence.
