Eighteen killed in Niger communal clash over land dispute, 15 burnt to death
via Punch Nigeria2 min read
Eighteen people have died in a communal clash in Rafi Local Government Area of Niger State, stemming from a long-standing land dispute. Fifteen of the victims were reportedly burned to death on Tuesday night at Angwan-Baago near Godoro village when assailants set a two-bedroom apartment ablaze, trapping them inside. Another person was killed at a separate location, bringing the total to 18. The Niger State Police Command confirmed the incident, stating that the violence is linked to a protracted land dispute between two communities. The crisis began on June 29 when Ibrahim Musa, 25, was shot dead at Godoro village. This led to a reprisal attack where vigilantes, known as Yansakai, allegedly killed Bashir Mazi, 28. Police spokesperson Wasiu Abiodun confirmed the attacks are connected to the land dispute. A reconciliation committee, headed by local government council officials, is working with security agencies to address the crisis, and joint police and military patrols have been deployed to restore peace. The Chairman of Rafi Local Government Area, Ayuba Katako, confirmed the crisis and the deployment of security operatives.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
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