Four Dead, Over 45 Injured in Herders’ Attack on Nasarawa Community

Lafia, Nasarawa State — A violent clash erupted in Akunza-Ashigye community near Assakio, within the Lafia East Development Area of Lafia Local Government, Nasarawa State, leaving at least four people dead and more than 45 others injured. The incident reportedly involved suspected armed herders, raising tensions in the region.

An eyewitness, Mr. Jonathan Adamu, a resident of Akunza-Ashigye, confirmed the attack to our correspondent via phone. He noted that the violence appears linked to a lingering feud between Fulani herders and local residents, which has previously resulted in casualties on both sides during 2024.

Adamu suggested that the recent attack may have been a retaliatory measure following the death of a Fulani herder last Sunday. According to his account, two Fulani herders were returning from a cattle market in Lafia on a motorcycle when they were ambushed by suspected armed men on a bridge just outside the Akunza-Ashigye community. One of the herders was reportedly killed in the attack.

“The Fulani man identified one of the attackers by his dreadlocks and concluded that the assailants came from Akunza-Ashigye. This appears to have triggered the reprisal that took place last night,” Adamu stated.

The Nasarawa State Police Command confirmed the attack through its Public Relations Officer, Rahman Nansel, who said that three deaths have been verified. “Two individuals died immediately at the scene, while another succumbed to injuries at the hospital,” Nansel reported.

He added that the Commissioner of Police has ordered a substantial deployment of security personnel to the affected area, and a thorough investigation has been launched to apprehend the perpetrators and restore peace to the community.

This latest incident highlights the growing tensions between herders and farming communities in Nasarawa State and underscores the urgent need for effective conflict resolution measures. Authorities are appealing to residents to remain calm and report any suspicious activities to maintain law and order.

Residents and analysts have also called for more structured community dialogue and security patrols, stressing that unresolved disputes can escalate rapidly, threatening the safety and livelihoods of both herders and local populations