11 killed, 50 houses destroyed in Nasarawa community clashes

At least 11 people have been confirmed dead following renewed clashes between two communities in Nasarawa State, with dozens of homes destroyed in the violence.

The Nasarawa State Police Command said the incident occurred in the Udege Development Area of Nasarawa Local Government, where Akyawa and Udege Kasa communities clashed in the early hours of Friday over unresolved disagreements.

In a statement issued in Lafia, the state capital, Police Public Relations Officer, SP Ramhan Nansel, said the casualties prompted the Commissioner of Police, Shetima Jauro Mohammed, to visit the affected communities in a bid to restore calm.

According to the statement, the police commissioner expressed deep sorrow during his visit on April 3, 2026, noting that 11 people were killed and several houses destroyed.

“The incident, which occurred in the early hours of the same day, involved hoodlums suspected to have carried out a reprisal attack over the alleged killing of two of their kinsmen.

“In the course of the attack, 11 persons were killed, while about 50 houses were burnt in Akyawa and two houses in Udege Kasa.

“In response, CP Shetima has ordered an intensive manhunt for all perpetrators of the heinous act, directing tactical teams and investigative units to ensure their prompt identification, arrest, and prosecution,” the statement read.

The command added that security presence has been strengthened in the area, with police working alongside the military and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps to prevent further violence.

Nansel also noted that a stakeholders’ meeting was held during the visit, where residents were urged to remain calm, law-abiding, and cooperate with security agencies by providing useful information.

“The Command reassures members of the public that normalcy has been restored to the affected communities, while proactive measures are in place to prevent any recurrence of violence,” he said.

Meanwhile, local sources alleged that the attackers may be suspected Fulani militias believed to be bandits, who reportedly invaded the communities late Thursday night.

The latest attack is believed to be a continuation of earlier violence in nearby Sabon Gida (Gidan Ada Ogiri), where homes, farm produce, and other valuables were destroyed.

Residents said the fresh assault came less than 48 hours after the previous incident, heightening fear across neighbouring communities.

“It is becoming unbearable. They abduct at will and now invade our entire communities unchecked. People are living in fear and fleeing their homes for safety,” a resident lamented.

Once known for mining activities and a vibrant local economy, the affected communities have recently been plagued by recurring insecurity linked to suspected armed groups.

Residents are calling on the Nasarawa State Government to act swiftly to contain the situation and restore lasting peace, especially as farmers begin a new planting season amid fears of further attacks.