Justin Tyopuusu, Jalingo
Reports have surfaced of a tragic incident in which at least six individuals lost their lives and many others sustained injuries in an assault on a farming community by suspected herdsmen.
On Sunday, the attack targeted Mararaban Azagwa and Alele villages, both located in Maihula within the Bali Local Government Area of the state.
An area resident, Isah Abdul, shared with our correspondent that the turmoil began when a man, intoxicated and under the influence of substances he had consumed at the Maihula market, was discovered dead on his journey back home.
“It is an unfortunate situation. The deceased’s family, upon finding his body, accused the Tiv community where he died of being accountable for his demise.
“There is no concrete evidence to suggest foul play in the man’s death. It is probable that he succumbed to complications linked to the alcohol and drugs he had ingested.
“Nonetheless, his family members, convinced that the Tiv residents were at fault, launched attacks resulting in casualties,” stated Abdul.
Chairman of the Taraba State Tiv Traditional Council, Zaki David Gbaa, addressed the press in Bali regarding the tragic events, revealing that six individuals had been killed and four others were in critical condition at the hospital.
Gbaa identified the deceased as Aondohemba Salemkaan, Tersuugh Dondo, Terkuma Mbatim, Kumaga Ujam Asaaga Nev, and Tersoo Memga.
While he denounced the violence, the Tiv leader commended the swift intervention of security forces in restoring order.
He expressed optimism in the apprehension and prosecution of the attackers by the security agencies, noting their existence within the community facilitating identification.
Confirming the incident in a phone conversation, the Taraba State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Gambo Kwache, mentioned that only two bodies had been recovered by the police thus far.
Gambo stated that no arrests had been made, but security personnel were conducting thorough searches in pursuit of the perpetrators.