Bloody Sallah: Six killed, several injured as farmers, herders clash in Taraba

No fewer than six people were reported killed in an uprising that occurred on Saturday between suspected herders and farmers in the Bali Local Government Council of Taraba State.

The incident, which The Guardian learned occurred in Mararaban Azagwa, Maihula town of Bali Council, also left several people with various degrees of injuries.

Though the police confirmed that only two people were killed, sources from the community said no fewer than six people, including a 92-year-old man, lost their lives to the incident.

Speaking with The Guardian via telephone, the command’s acting spokeswoman, Gambo Kwache, said two people were killed and several others injured.

Kwache, who told our state correspondent that operatives have restored peace to the community, said those with various degrees of injuries are currently undergoing medication at Bali General Hospital.

Not comfortable with the number of casualties announced by the police, sources from the community who also shared their thoughts with The Guardian via telephone, said that apart from the killings, several people were also injured.

Trouble was said to have erupted when the remains of a suspected herder, alleged to be a drunk and drug addict, were found.

The family of the deceased person accused another ethnic group of causing the death of the herder, a situation that led to the crisis resulting in killings and destruction of property.

Also confirming the killings, the Tiv traditional ruler in Bali, Zaki David Gbaa, said that while six people were brutally murdered, four others are currently in critical condition.

Gbaa identified those killed as Aondohemba Salemkaan, Tersuugh Dondo, Terkuma Mbatim, Kumaga Ujam Asaaga Nev, and Tersoo Memga.

While condemning the attack, Gaa admitted that the number of casualties would have been far above six had it not been for the swift intervention of security operatives.

Calling on the state government and security operatives to take extra legitimate steps in apprehending those behind the mayhem, he stressed the urgent need for the government to come to the aid of the victims.

The council chairman could not be reached at the time of filing this report, as all his mobile lines were switched off.

However, a senior staff member of the council who confirmed the incident said the leadership of the council is working closely with security agencies to bring the perpetrators of the crisis to book.

Speaking anonymously, he expressed sadness at the way and manner in which the Sallah celebration was disrupted in the community and the council at large.