A renewed conflict between farmers and suspected herders in Taraba State has left one person injured and 62 houses completely destroyed.

The incident occurred in Bali Local Government Area and affected two neighbouring farming communities—Tor Bali and Atongo.

Residents say trouble began when a woman from one of the communities visited a pond situated between the two villages to fetch water. According to reports, she was attacked by some herders near the pond.

The assault quickly led to tension, and within hours, the conflict escalated into a full-blown attack that destroyed properties and forced villagers to flee for safety.

Chairman of Bali Local Government Area, Aboki Dauda, confirmed the attack. He said, “A woman was fetching water from the pond when some herders allegedly beat her. That incident caused this crisis.”

Security agents have since visited the area, and calm is gradually returning, although several families have been left without shelter.

State Government Issues Stern Warning Against Violence

In response to the incident, the Taraba State Government issued a firm warning to communities and individuals across the state. It declared that it would no longer tolerate any act capable of undermining the peace it has worked hard to build in the region.

Officials say that both communal clashes and farmer-herder conflicts would be met with strong legal and administrative actions. The government reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property and urged all residents to embrace dialogue and non-violence.

Communal clashes and land disputes, especially those involving access to water, farmland, and grazing routes, are frequent in Taraba and other parts of North Central Nigeria.

This latest attack adds to the growing schisms in farming communities already battling displacement and economic hardship due to repeated violence.

Efforts to resolve the lingering conflict are ongoing, with community leaders and security agencies expected to hold further peace talks in the coming days.

Rate, Like 👍, Comment, share this article and Follow us on our social media handles.