Calm has been restored to Tse-Ukough village in the Baye-Yandev Council Ward of Guma Local Government Area, Benue State, after a violent altercation between a Tiv farmer and a Fulani herder left both men critically injured.
According to intelligence gathered by Zagazola Makama, the incident unfolded around 10:30 a.m. on Sunday, stemming from a dispute concerning the use of a communal well.
Reports indicate that Ushahemba Usula, a Tiv farmer, was engaged in block molding near his private well when Saleh Hassan, a Fulani herder, led his cattle to drink from the same source.
Ushahemba reportedly objected, explaining that the water was meant for human consumption, and asked the herder to leave with his animals.
The disagreement quickly turned violent. Saleh is alleged to have attacked Ushahemba with a cutlass, causing severe injuries to his head and hand.
In response, Ushahemba reportedly disarmed Saleh, seized the weapon, and retaliated by striking him, severing one of his hands.
Both men were left with life-threatening wounds and were immediately taken to the Benue State University Teaching Hospital (BSUTH) in Makurdi for urgent medical attention.
The incident sparked concerns of potential communal unrest between the Tiv and Fulani residents in the area.
However, security operatives swiftly intervened, stabilizing the situation and launching patrols to prevent any escalation.
Authorities have appealed to both communities to exercise restraint and support ongoing efforts to maintain peace in the region.