Tragedy struck in Nasarawa State as at least 11 people were confirmed dead following renewed violence between two communities in the Udege Development Area of Nasarawa Local Government.
The clash, which involved residents of Akyawa and Udege Kasa, reportedly broke out in the early hours of Friday over unresolved disputes. The violence quickly escalated, leaving multiple casualties and widespread destruction in its wake.
Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, SP Ramhan Nansel, said the Commissioner of Police, Shetima Jauro Mohammed, visited the affected communities on April 3, 2026, to assess the situation and restore calm.
According to him, the police boss expressed deep sadness over the loss of lives and destruction of property, noting that about 50 houses were burnt in Akyawa, while two others were destroyed in Udege Kasa.
Preliminary findings indicate that the attack may have been a reprisal, allegedly carried out by hoodlums in response to the killing of two of their kinsmen.
In response, the Commissioner of Police has ordered a full-scale manhunt for those responsible, directing tactical teams and investigators to ensure that all perpetrators are identified and brought to justice.
Security presence in the area has also been reinforced, with the police working alongside the military and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps to prevent further breakdown of law and order.
During his visit, the police chief held a stakeholders’ meeting, urging residents to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by providing useful information that could aid ongoing investigations.
Authorities say normalcy has since been restored, with proactive measures in place to avoid another outbreak of violence.
However, concerns remain high among residents, as local sources claim the attack may be linked to suspected bandit activity. Reports suggest armed groups had been seen moving around nearby communities days before the incident, raising questions about security preparedness.
Read Also;
Easter: Nigeria Will Overcome Corruption — EFCC Chairman Assures
The latest violence is believed to be a continuation of earlier unrest in nearby Sabon Gida, where properties and farmlands were also destroyed.
Residents say the repeated attacks are taking a heavy toll on their livelihoods and sense of safety, especially in communities once known for thriving mining activities and local trade.
Many are now calling on the state government to take urgent and decisive action, warning that continued insecurity could further displace families and disrupt the ongoing farming season.
