Clash over water source leaves one dead in Benue community
By: Zagazola Makama
One person has been confirmed dead following a violent clash between residents and suspected armed herders at Alaglanu community in Ohimini Local Government Area of Benue State.
Zagazola Makama learnt that the incident occurred on Jan. 27 at about 5:30 a.m. at Alaglanu River, the only source of drinking water for the community.
According to the source, armed herders allegedly trespassed into the river with their cattle and contaminated the water, which led to a confrontation with local residents.
“In the course of the fracas, one Mr Abah Abeye, 45, was shot dead while efforts were being made to drive the cattle away from the river,” the source said.
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The Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge of Ohimini Division reportedly received the distress call at about 7:00 a.m. and immediately mobilised a patrol team alongside operatives from the Otukpo Area Command and military personnel to the scene.
“The corpse of the deceased was photographed and deposited at the Federal University Teaching Hospital, Otukpo.
“Subsequently, information was received that one Fulani man was also killed during the clash, although his body has not yet been recovered,” the source added.
The police said additional tactical teams had been deployed to Alaglanu and surrounding communities to prevent further violence and restore lasting calm to the area.
Residents were urged to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies as investigations into the incident continued.