Niger Communal Clash: Gov Gives Affected Families N1m Each

Following a communal clash between Fulani and Kamuku communities that led to the killing of people and burning of houses in Rafi local government area of Niger state, the state Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has offered N1million each  to the families of the bereaved and sued for peace.

The Governor, who visited the area yesterday, made the call at the Palace of the Emir of Kagara, describing the incident as unfortunate and commiserating with those affected.

He observed that land-grabbing activities of some title holders in the Emirate and the violent behaviour of some members of vigilante groups exacerbated the clash.

Bago directed that those identified as behind the incident should report themselves to the police headquarters in Minna or be arrested, as no one was above the law.

The Governor also cautioned politicians in the emirate who have allowed their supporters to instigate a crisis in the area to desist and embrace peace.

He also ordered that no land be sold within the Emirate without the Emirate Council’s government clearance, believing that the measure would provide a lasting solution.

He further appealed to the people not to continue taking the law into their own hands but to report to the appropriate authorities.

The  Governor then disclosed a donation of N1,000,000 each to those killed, hospitalised and houses destroyed among the two communities to cushion the effect of the clash.

He also tasked the Emir of Kagara with appointing district and ward heads across all tribes in the Emirate to ensure inclusivity.

In his remarks, the Emir of Kagara, Ahmad Garba Attahiru II, welcomed the Governor’s visit, acknowledging that the communal clash was unfortunate and avoidable.

The Emir assured that his Emirate Council would work closely with the local government council Chairman and other relevant stakeholders to forestall recurrence.