Fresh communal unrest has erupted in Taraba State following a violent clash between Tiv farmers and Fulani herders in Bali Local Government Area.
The confrontation, which reportedly began over access to a shared water source, left many injured and properties worth millions of naira destroyed.
According to local authorities on Friday, the conflict started at a pond situated between Tor Bali and Atongo villages, which both communities rely on for water.
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Trouble reportedly began when a Tiv woman fetching water was allegedly assaulted by herders after confronting them for allowing their cattle to pollute the pond.
The Council Chairman, Aboki Dauda, confirmed the incident, saying the attack on the woman escalated tensions and triggered a broader clash.
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“What happened here was terrible; houses were burnt and people displaced, but thank God no lives were lost,” Dauda said.
“A woman tried to stop them and was attacked. She cried out, and others came to her aid, which triggered the crisis.”
He added that the herders’ leaders have been summoned and warned. “We have identified those responsible. We made it clear to the herders’ leadership that any repeat of this attack will not be tolerated.”
A victim, Ezekiel Gboo, who narrowly escaped death, recalled, “We were on the farm when they suddenly came from all directions with sticks and machetes… About 30 of them beat me with sticks and cutlasses.”
In response, the state government dispatched a delegation led by Commissioner Saviour Noku to the affected communities. Noku urged peace, saying.
“It is always cheaper to prevent crises than to react to them. What we have brought today is just temporary relief.”
The situation remains tense, with calls for justice and long-term solutions to prevent future conflicts.
