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Fresh violence has torn through parts of Nasarawa State, leaving at least 11 people dead and dozens of homes destroyed in a renewed clash between two communities.
The deadly confrontation, involving residents of Akyawa and Udege Kasa in Udege Development Area, erupted in the early hours of Friday, marking another escalation in a cycle of violence that locals say is becoming increasingly unpredictable.
Police confirmed the casualties, with the state command describing the attack as a reprisal carried out by suspected hoodlums following the alleged killing of two individuals. The violence quickly spiralled, resulting in widespread destruction.
According to police spokesperson SP Ramhan Nansel, at least 50 houses were razed in Akyawa, while two others were burnt in Udege Kasa during the assault. Entire families have been displaced, with many residents fleeing for safety.
In response, the Commissioner of Police, Shetima Jauro Mohammed, visited the affected communities on April 3, expressing condolences to grieving families and assuring them that those responsible would be brought to justice.
“The command has launched an intensive manhunt for all perpetrators,” Nansel said, adding that tactical teams and investigative units have been deployed to identify and arrest those behind the killings.
Security presence has since been reinforced in the area, with police working alongside the military and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps to restore order and prevent further breakdown of law and order.
Despite these assurances, tension remains high. Local accounts suggest the attack may be linked to suspected armed groups believed to have been moving through nearby communities days before the violence erupted.
Residents say the latest killings follow closely on the heels of another attack in Sabon Gida, where homes and farm produce were destroyed, raising fears of a coordinated pattern of violence.
“It is becoming unbearable,” one resident said. “People are living in fear. You don’t know which community will be attacked next.”
Once known for mining activities and a thriving local economy, the affected communities are now grappling with repeated insecurity that threatens livelihoods and food production.
With the farming season beginning, many residents are calling on the Nasarawa State Government to act swiftly, warning that continued inaction could lead to further displacement and humanitarian strain.
