Council chair urges calm as man dies in farmers, herders clash

The chairman of Kwali Area Council, Nuhu Daniel Kwali, has appealed for calm following the killing of a farmer, Markus Halidu, during a clash between farmers and herders in Kilankwa II community.

The council chairman made the appeal during an on-the-spot assessment of Fulani settlements where several huts were burnt in the aftermath of the violence.

He was accompanied by security personnel, including soldiers, police officers, personnel of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and local vigilantes.

Kwali said he received news of the clash, which claimed one life and led to the destruction of property, with shock and sadness while attending the commissioning of projects in Abuja alongside other area council chairmen.

He described the incident as unfortunate, noting that his administration, which is barely three weeks old, has its focus on providing infrastructure and improving the welfare of residents, rather than responding to violent conflicts.

According to him, clashes between farmers and herders often occur during the farming season due to cattle straying into farmlands and destroying crops, stressing that such disputes should be handled peacefully to prevent loss of lives and property.

He condemned the violence and urged both farmers and herders to embrace peaceful coexistence and dialogue whenever disagreements arise.

Earlier, the chairman visited the family of the deceased, Markus Halidu, to condole with them and the people of Kilankwa community. He prayed for the repose of the deceased’s soul and urged residents not to resort to violence in resolving disputes.

Kwali also commended security agencies and local vigilantes for their prompt intervention, which helped restore normalcy in the area.

He disclosed that the council would convene an expanded security meeting this week involving traditional rulers, district and village heads, community leaders, Fulani leaders, Ardos, and security agencies to develop measures aimed at curbing the recurring farmers-herders clashes in the area.

Meanwhile, Abuja Metro gathered that a similar clash occurred last Wednesday in Yebu community, where a farmer, who is reportedly a soldier, sustained injuries.

Confirming the incident, the chairman said the situation had been brought under control and that peace had returned to the community, with residents going about their normal activities.

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