By Terna Chikpa
Tension has enveloped Pangri community in Bali Local Government Area of Taraba State following a violent attack on Tiv farmers by Fulani herdsmen, which reportedly left several persons injured on Tuesday.
The Taraba State Police Command has confirmed the incident.
The command’s Public Relations Officer, Victor Msheliza, explained that the Fulani herders also macheted a police officer who had gone to arrest a herder whose cattle grazed on farmland.
The incident, according to sources in the area, started after cattle allegedly grazed on a farm belonging to a Tiv farmer, who was said to have reported the matter to the police.
According to local sources who spoke on condition of anonymity, trouble began when police officers moved in to intervene in the dispute but were allegedly attacked by the Fulani.
The source said a police officer reportedly shot one of the attackers during the confrontation after coming under threat.
“After the incident, tension rose in the area and Fulani herders started attacking Tiv farmers at Pangri market, leaving several persons with machete injuries,” the source said.
Another resident, who confirmed the development, said the situation created panic among residents, forcing some people to temporarily stay away from the affected areas.
“The attack happened around the market area. Some farmers were injured and people are now afraid because nobody knows what will happen next,” the resident said.
However, the number of persons injured could not be independently verified as of the time of filing this report.
Reacting to the development, the Tor Bali and Chairman of the Tiv Traditional Council, Chief David Gbaa Tella, condemned the attack, describing it as unfortunate, unprovoked, and capable of undermining the peace and harmony that residents of the area have continued to promote.
Chief Gbaa called on the state government and security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
He also appealed to the authorities to provide urgent support to the victims, including taking responsibility for their medical expenses to enable them to recover from their injuries.
“The attack is unfortunate and unprovoked. Government and security agencies must investigate the matter thoroughly, identify the perpetrators, and ensure justice is served. The victims also need immediate assistance, including support for their medical bills,” he said.
Meanwhile, residents have called on security agencies to increase surveillance in the area and prevent further escalation of the crisis.
They also urged community leaders and relevant stakeholders to intensify peace-building efforts to sustain peaceful coexistence among the different ethnic groups in the local government area.
