Security agencies hold peace meeting with Fulani leaders over Bali clash
By: Zagazola Makama
Security agencies in Taraba State on Sunday convened a peace meeting with Fulani leaders, hunters and key stakeholders in Bali Local Government Area to de-escalate rising tensions following a violent clash between local hunters and herders.
Zagazola Makama understands that the meeting, which took place at the Bali Divisional Police Station, followed the death of Saidu Kantu, one of nine Fulani herders injured during the altercation with members of the Hunters Association of Nigeria in Angwan Kuwait, Bali town, on May 24.
According to security sources, the altercation erupted after a Fulani group was allegedly denied access to a well by a local woman, Mrs. Nater Ayinaorga. A scuffle ensued, prompting the woman to alert the hunters group, which responded with violence that left multiple herders with machete wounds.
In response to the rising tension and fear of reprisals, military and police officials moved swiftly to bring leaders of the Fulani community, hunters’ representatives, and local authorities together for dialogue.
“We are urging restraint and appealing to all sides to avoid any further violence,” a senior security officer told Zagazola Makama
“The chairman of the hunters association has been arrested and is currently being interrogated. The case will be transferred to the Area Command in Jalingo for proper investigation.”
The meeting emphasized justice, accountability, and continued engagement as key tools in preventing escalation. Fulani leaders were assured that the matter would be handled transparently and that no one found culpable would be shielded from prosecution.
Meanwhile, security has been beefed up in Bali and surrounding areas, with troops on alert to prevent any further breakdown of law and order.
