By Ali Abare Abubakar
In what appears to be a fresh wave of the circle of violence engulfing Nasarawa state, several persons were feared killed, with unconfirmed report saying over 30 people lost their lives while 46 houses were razed down following fierce fighting involving Fulani herdsmen and Eggon Ombatse militia in Tudun Adabu.
The crisis, which erupted yesterday lasted several hours, throwing the agrarian community into pandemonium as residents fled the area for safety, leading to the burning down of over 46 houses.
One of those who fled the area when the Fulani were said to have invaded at about 10am, Esla Jatau, told journalists that there was rumours since Monday morning of the impending attack by the herdsmen so women and children were evacuated before the attack at about 10am.
Another victim, who spoke under the condition of anonymity, said that at about 11a.m., some suspected herdsmen were seen carrying their dead and injured, heading towards Obi town, adding that rampaging youths had also barricaded Lafia-Obi road in search of Fulani commuters and in the process vandalized many cars.
Confirming the incident, Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) in the state, ASP Isma’ila Numan, however said only four bodies, burnt beyond recognition, were recovered from the scene, adding that 46 houses were completely razed down.
Commenting on the matter, President of Eggon Cultural Development Association (ECDA) Mr. Chris Mamman, said the series of attacks on Eggon communities is unprovoked, stressing that it is not a case of Eggon fighting with Fulani but that of Fulani wreaking havoc on Eggon communities.
On his part however, the secretary general of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association (MACBAN), Alhaji Abubakar Husseini, said the leadership of Fulani and Eggon communities in the state had reached an agreement on peace, only for the Eggon to renege on the peace deal reached leading to the ongoing faceoff.
On his part, Abdulhamid Kwarra, Senior Special Adviser to Governor Umaru Tanko Al-makura on Public Affairs, said government has made adequate provision for the internally displaced who are currently being camped in Wamba, Akwanga, Nasarawa Eggon, Lafia and Obi local government areas.
The SSA called on residents to remain calm and law abiding stressing that reprisal attacks would only fuel the crisis. He said that the state government is working tirelessly to ensure that the carnage is checked.
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