A fresh wave of communal violence has broken out in Taraba State, following a clash between Tiv farmers and Fulani herders in the Bali Local Government Area. The incident, which occurred over access to a shared water source, left several individuals injured and caused the destruction of properties worth millions of naira.
The violence reportedly began at a pond located between Tor Bali and Atongo villages, which both communities rely on for water. According to local reports, the crisis was sparked when a woman fetching water at the pond was allegedly assaulted by herders after confronting them for allowing their cattle to drink from the same source.
Confirming the incident, the Chairman of Bali LGA, Aboki Dauda, described the clash as a serious disturbance that led to the burning of houses and displacement of residents. However, he confirmed that no lives were lost.
“What happened here was terrible. Houses were burnt and people were displaced, but thank God no lives were lost,” Dauda stated. “The herders brought their cattle to the pond and polluted the water. When a woman tried to stop them, she was attacked. This led to an outcry that escalated into a full-blown crisis.”
Dauda also disclosed that the council had summoned leaders of the herder community, issued strong warnings, and identified individuals responsible for the attack.
“We have made it clear to the herders’ leadership that any repeat of this violence will not be tolerated,” he added.
One of the survivors, Ezekiel Gboo from Tor Bali, recounted his terrifying experience. “We were on the farm when they came from all directions with sticks and machetes. I tried to run and call for help but was caught. About 30 of them beat me with sticks and cutlasses,” he said.
In response to the unrest, the Taraba State Government dispatched a high-level delegation led by the Commissioner for Special Duties and Humanitarian Affairs, Saviour Noku, to the affected communities. The delegation appealed for peace and distributed relief materials to displaced residents.
“Let us strive to live peacefully with our neighbours,” Noku urged. “It is always cheaper to prevent crises than to respond to them. What we have brought today is temporary relief, but we remain committed to supporting your return and long-term resettlement.”
The state government has reiterated its commitment to restoring calm and ensuring justice and safety for all residents in the troubled region.
Comments