Kebbi govt vows justice after farmers-herders clash claims eight lives

Kebbi State Government has vowed to ensure those responsible for the deadly farmers-herders clash in Gulma, Argungu Local Government Area, are brought to justice, while condoling with families of the eight victims killed in the violence.

Deputy Governor, Senator Abubakar Umar Tafida, conveyed the government’s condolences during a visit to the community on behalf of Governor Nasir Idris, sympathising with the bereaved families and praying for the repose of the victims.

Tafida described the incident as unfortunate and assured residents that those responsible for the killings would be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.

He also urged residents to remain peaceful and avoid reprisals, stressing that the government would not tolerate any act capable of threatening peace and security in the state.

Speaking during the visit, Chairman of Argungu Local Government Area, Aliyu Sani Gulma, said the violence began after cattle allegedly strayed into a farmland belonging to one Aminu Ala and destroyed crops.

According to him, an argument reportedly ensued between the farmer and the herder, during which the farmer was allegedly stabbed to death. 

The incident triggered reprisals by residents, who killed the herder and set his body ablaze.

Gulma said the violence later spread to members of the herders’ community despite the intervention of security agencies. 

He added that two more bodies were later recovered on the outskirts of Gulma, bringing the death toll to eight, comprising one farmer and seven herders.

The council chairman commended the state government for the swift deployment of security personnel, saying the intervention helped restore calm in the affected community.

Also speaking, the Emir of Argungu, represented by the Kokanin Kabi, Kabiru Abdullahi, described the incident as tragic and appealed to farmers and herders to embrace peaceful coexistence.

 A representative of the Fulani community, Aliyu Usman, also called for dialogue and tolerance to prevent future clashes.

Kebbi govt vows justice after farmers-herders clash claims eight lives