A recent ethnic clash in the 3rd Avenue area of Gwarinpa Estate, Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja has claimed many lives and left several people injured. Although the exact number of casualties is unconfirmed, the crisis erupted when a group of criminals comprising mostly Keke riders and drug dealers attacked the residence of a local politician in the area, prompting a retaliatory response from the indigenous residents, mainly the Gbagyis in the community.
Following the clash, the Hausa people in the community were chased away, leading to fatalities before the military intervened and restored calm to the area. However, the second phase of the crisis ensued when the military left the area, and Hausa guys vandalized over 30 cars in the community.
Normalcy has since been restored to the area with the heavy presence of the FCT Joint Task Force (JTF) of security operatives, including the police, military, DSS, NSCDC, and Guard Brigade. The JTF is currently patrolling the Gwarinpa estate, specifically areas suspected to have shanty structures to ensure lasting peace and stability.
It is crucial to note that ethnic clashes have been on the rise in Nigeria in recent times, and urgent measures need to be taken to address this issue. The government must work with all relevant stakeholders to put an end to these clashes and create an atmosphere of peace and security for all citizens