The Jigawa State Police Command on Saturday confirmed that a communal clash in the state on Friday resulted in the deaths of nine individuals and injuries to four others.
Earlier reports indicated that the violent conflict, which occurred in the Miga Local Government Area, claimed multiple lives and left several residents hospitalized. Witness accounts revealed that the clashes broke out unexpectedly, catching the communities unprepared.
Providing further details, the state Police Command Public Relations Officer, SP Shi’isu Adam, clarified that the incident transpired between some communities in the Jahun Local Government Area.
He noted that while fatalities were recorded, several victims are still receiving medical attention.
In a statement, Adam explained, “On 03/01/2025, information from Gululu village in Miga LGA indicated that a group of miscreants suspected to be Fulani broke into a shop and stole a quantity of hibiscus and other provisions.
“A team of villagers (Hausawa) traced their footprints to a Fulani Settlement Camp in Yankunama village, Jahun LGA.
“On sighting the team, the Fulanis started shooting the villagers with bows and arrows, as a result, four persons were seriously injured as the villagers mobilised and started attacking the Fulanis and setting their houses ablaze at various locations within Miga and Jahun LGAs.”
Upon learning of the situation, police teams from the Miga and Jahun divisions were dispatched to the affected areas to restore peace.
Adam confirmed, “Nine bodies were recovered. The corpses were ferried to Jahun and Miga Hospitals, where the medical doctor on duty confirmed their deaths.”
Following the incident, the state Commissioner of Police, A.T. Abdullahi, alongside senior officers, including the Area Commander of Dutse and the Mobile Policeman Commander, visited the affected communities.
Bala Wadan, a resident of Gululu village, shared that a stakeholder meeting was quickly organized.
The meeting brought together the speaker of the state House of Assembly, local government chairmen, district heads, Miyetti Allah representatives, and vigilante leaders. Discussions focused on maintaining peace and preventing further violence or retaliatory attacks.
Meanwhile, increased police patrols have been deployed to the area to avert further unrest.
Adam assured that the situation is now under control, with an investigation underway to identify and prosecute those responsible.
