Tension in Nasarawa as many are feared dead, houses set ablaze over clash between Alago, Tiv farmers

By David Odama

Tension is mounting in Nasarawa South Senatorial Zone, following clashes between Alago and Tiv farmers over land dispute along Nasarawa/Benue border Communities.

It was gathered that the crisis erupted last Monday, when a dead body of an Alago young man was reportedly found along Keana/Guma border of Nasarawa and Benue states.

Alago youth in Keana, angered by the development, reportedly launched attack on Tiv settlements after allegedly gathered that the young man was killed by the Tiv farmers resulting to the death of two persons with scores injured and houses burnt.

City Post learnt that hundreds of Tiv farmers at the affected border communities displaced by the attacks are now taking refuge in Lafia, Kadarko, Daudu and Makurdi, in Benue state, for safety.

The spokesman of Nasarawa State Police Command, Ramhan Nansel, who confirmed the skirmishes in Lafia, said the crisis in Keana have claimed the lives of two while 5 are critically injured

According to the PPRO, heavy security have been deployed to the area stating normalcy is beginning to be restored.

“The Commissioner of Police has condemned the attack and ordered a manhunt for the assailants” he said.

Meanwhile, Governor Abdullahi Sule speaking shortly after an expanded executive and security meeting condemned the crisis.

“I had to ask my Commissioner for Special Duties on Security to rush to Keana. The first meeting I had was with the security agencies. They are on their way now to resolve the matter between the Tivs and Alago.

“I have been trying to get the Governor of Benue on line also to intervene and let’s see the end of the problem,” Governor Sule stated.