At least 11 people were killed and dozens of homes destroyed following a deadly communal clash in the Udege Development Area of Nasarawa State on Friday, April 3, prompting the police to launch a manhunt for the perpetrators.
The incident occurred in the early hours of the day, reportedly as a reprisal over the alleged killing of two persons. Villages in the area, including Akyawa and Udege Kasa, bore the brunt of the violence. In Akyawa, about 50 houses were set ablaze, while two homes were destroyed in Udege Kasa, leaving many residents homeless and traumatized.
The Commissioner of Police in Nasarawa State, Shetima Jauro Mohammed, visited the affected communities to commiserate with victims and assess the destruction.
Describing the incident as “tragic,” he expressed sympathy with bereaved families and assured residents that the perpetrators would be brought to justice.
“We are deeply saddened by this unfortunate incident that led to the loss of innocent lives and destruction of property,” Mohammed said. “The Command remains committed to ensuring that the perpetrators are identified, arrested, and prosecuted.”
Following the attack, the police commissioner ordered the immediate deployment of tactical teams and investigative units to track down those involved. Additional security personnel were also deployed to the area to restore calm and prevent further violence.
The police are working closely with the military and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps to strengthen security in the affected communities. Joint patrols have been instituted to reassure residents and deter potential reprisal attacks.
During a stakeholders’ meeting held in the community, Mohammed urged residents to remain peaceful and cooperate with security agencies. He also called on the public to provide useful information that could assist in the ongoing investigations.
“The cooperation of the community is crucial. Residents must remain calm and provide information that could lead to the arrest of the criminals,” he said.
The attack left many residents shaken and displaced. Survivors described waking up to sounds of gunfire and seeing flames engulfing homes in Akyawa.
One resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said, “People ran for their lives. We tried to save what we could, but the fire spread very fast. Many families lost everything.”
Local authorities have now provided temporary shelters for displaced residents while relief materials are being mobilized to assist the victims.
Nasarawa State has occasionally witnessed communal clashes, often sparked by land disputes, personal vendettas, or allegations of killings. These clashes frequently lead to loss of lives, destruction of property, and displacement of residents.
Security agencies have in recent years intensified efforts to prevent communal violence through early intervention and community policing. However, such attacks continue to challenge the stability of some rural areas.
Following the attack, police authorities confirmed that normalcy has been restored to the affected communities. Residents have begun returning to their homes under police supervision, and proactive measures have been put in place to prevent a recurrence.
Mohammed emphasized that the police are determined to ensure lasting peace in the area. “Our focus is not only to bring the perpetrators to justice but also to maintain security and prevent future incidents,” he said.
Authorities are calling on community members to remain vigilant and support security agencies with any information regarding the attackers.
“We appeal to residents to be security-conscious. Any useful information, no matter how small, can help prevent further attacks and bring the criminals to justice,” Mohammed added.
The Nasarawa State Police Command has assured the public that the investigation into the deadly attack is ongoing and that those responsible will face prosecution under the law.