Five killed as farmers, herdsmen clash in Taraba

At least five people have been killed and many injured in fresh attacks on Fulani communities in Sardauna local government area of Taraba state.

David Misal, spokesman of the police in the state, confirmed the attack, saying a militia group is suspected of being behind it.

Misal told NAN that crisis erupted in Nyiwa and Yerimaru areas on Thursday as a result of a misunderstanding between a farmer and a herder.

He said units of mobile policemen and soldiers from the 20 battalion in Serti have been deployed in the area to maintain law and order.

Misal added that the situation, which led to the burning of several homes and killing of many cows, had been brought under control.

A victim of the attack, Abubakar Ardo, who escaped with his family, said the attacks started at midday on Thursday and most of the killings occurred in the night.

He said almost all houses in about 15 Fulani communities were torched by the assailants.

Ardo said that the timely arrival of both army and police prevented further killings and destruction of property.

He said that 15 people were killed during the violence on Thursday evening, adding that five of those killed were buried in Gembu on Friday.

Ardo also confirmed that security personnel had been drafted to the areas.

He called on the state government and security agencies to apprehend and prosecute perpetrators to serve as deterrent to others.