By Admin 
By Peter Onyekachukwu, Warri
DELTA: At least 11 people were killed, and 31 huts razed in a violent clash between Hausa and Fulani communities in Gululu village, Jahun and Miga Local Government Areas of Jigawa State.
The deadly incident, which occurred last Friday, has left the community in mourning and fear of future clashes.
A Fulani elder, Suleiman Abubakar Jahun, who lost five of his children, described the tragic scene as devastating.
“I was at home when people informed me of a fight between the Hausa and Fulani communities. When I arrived at the scene, I witnessed senseless killings. My children were not involved in the fight; they were innocent victims,” he lamented.
Abubakar appealed to the government for assistance, as he now has 18 grandchildren to care for following the tragedy.
Another victim, Amadu Garba Jahun, who lost a child in the violence, stressed the community’s desire for peace.
“We are not seeking revenge or planning to take the law into our hands. We want the government to ensure justice is done,” Garba said.
The Jigawa State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), led by Dr. Haruna Mairiga, visited the affected community and provided relief materials, including 25 bags of rice and N500,000 for families who lost loved ones. Families who lost a child each were given five bags of rice and N100,000.
Dr. Mairiga explained that the clash erupted after some stolen items were traced by Hausa residents to a Fulani settlement, leading to a confrontation that spiraled out of control.
Hon. Jamilu Muhammad Danmalam, the Executive Chairman of Jahun Local Government, described the incident as a minor dispute that escalated into violence. He assured that the local government is working with the state government and security agencies to restore peace.
Hon. Bilya Dauda Garbau, the Executive Chairman of Miga Local Government, urged security agencies to fully intervene to prevent further clashes. He commended SEMA for their swift response.
The Jigawa State Commissioner of Police, CP AT Abdullahi, said the government has established a committee to address conflicts between farmers and herders. He assured the community that violators would be arrested and prosecuted.
“We are working tirelessly to bring all perpetrators to justice. I urge residents to remain calm as security agencies are doing their best to prevent further violence,” the police chief said.
Despite the interventions, fear and tension remain high in the community, with residents hoping for lasting peace.