A violent clash between two communities in Taura Local Government Area of Jigawa State resulted in the destruction of at least 26 thatched houses and 16 granaries, the police have confirmed.
According to a statement released on Monday by police spokesperson SP Lawan Shiisu, the conflict erupted when a group from Zangon Maje stormed the Gidan Na Ruwa Fulani settlement late on Sunday night, wielding torches and chanting war slogans.
“The sight of the approaching group forced the residents to flee for safety,” Mr. Shiisu stated.
Upon receiving the distress report, the divisional police officer of Taura, along with his patrol team, rushed to the scene.
They discovered that youths from Zangon Maje had set fire to several houses and granaries during the attack.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the violence stemmed from an earlier incident in which two individuals from Zangon Maje, identified as 20-year-old Musa Hussaini and 26-year-old Shanu Sule, were assaulted, and their motorcycle was stolen.
In retaliation, community members mobilized, leading to the outbreak of violence.
Mr. Shiisu assured that calm had been restored in the area, with security forces intensifying patrols to prevent further unrest.
On Monday, the area commander in charge of Ringim led a police delegation to the affected communities, meeting with stakeholders and engaging in peace talks.
Meanwhile, five suspects have been arrested and are assisting with the investigation.
“The police command urges residents to refrain from taking the law into their own hands and instead report grievances through the appropriate channels for prompt resolution,” Mr. Shiisu added.