Kebbi Government Orders Probe into Farmers-Herders Clashes

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The Kebbi State Government has directed security agencies to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the recent clashes between farmers and herders in some communities of Arewa Local Government Area, with a view to identifying and prosecuting those responsible.

Governor Nasir Idris gave the directive when he led a high-powered government delegation to Kangiwa, headquarters of Arewa Local Government, to commiserate with victims of the clashes, which resulted in the destruction of Fulani settlements, farmlands, and loss of lives.

The Governor emphasized the importance of peace as a prerequisite for development, noting that no community, state, or nation can progress in the absence of peace and security. He warned that his administration would not tolerate any form of insecurity and reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining law and order across the state.

Governor Idris further revealed that most of the perpetrators of such attacks often infiltrate Kebbi from neighbouring Niger Republic, given the local government’s proximity to the international border. He, therefore, appealed to residents to live in harmony, shun reprisals, and accept the incident as the will of God.

While sympathizing with the victims, the Governor announced a donation of ₦150 million to assist those affected and pledged to collaborate with the Federal Government to provide additional relief materials.

In their separate remarks, the Minister of Budget and National Planning, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, and former Governor Saidu Usman Dakingari, stressed the importance of peaceful coexistence, urging citizens to set aside ethnic and religious differences for the unity and progress of the state and nation.

Earlier, the Chairman of Arewa Local Government, Alhaji Sani Aliyu, disclosed that the recent clashes occurred in Bui town and surrounding villages, resulting in casualties and property loss. He commended the Governor for ordering the deployment of soldiers to the affected communities, which helped restore peace and security.

Community leaders, including the District Head of Bui, Ardon Bui, and Sarkin Noma, recalled that the area had enjoyed decades of peaceful coexistence before the recent crisis. They called on the state government to take lasting measures to prevent future conflicts, especially during the farming season.

By Imran Musa