A violent confrontation between farmers and herders occurred in Wushishi local government Area of Niger State on Saturday, leaving two farmers with serious injuries.
The fight reportedly happened at about 1:00 PM when Ahmadu Sale, 25, and another farmer were working on their rice farm.
According to sources, two cattle rearers entered the farm with their herd of cows and attempted to graze on the crops.
Efforts by the farmers to stop the herders from grazing on their farmland were met with resistance, leading to a physical altercation.
During the fight, one of the herders, identified as Ahmadu Hussain, 20, allegedly attacked the farmers with a machete, inflicting deep cuts on both victims. The injuries were described as severe, prompting swift action from the Wushishi Division Police.
Police operatives quickly arrived at the scene, ensuring the victims were rushed to a nearby hospital for urgent medical treatment. The suspect, Ahmadu Hussain, was apprehended on the spot and taken into custody for further investigation.
The Niger State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Wasiu Abiodun, confirmed the incident to Channels Television in Minna. He stated that preliminary investigations into the matter are ongoing and assured the public that normalcy has been restored in the area.
He added that law enforcement is actively monitoring the situation to prevent any potential reprisal attacks. Residents have been urged to remain calm and cooperate with the police as investigations continue.
This incident highlights the ongoing tensions between farmers and herders in parts of Niger State, often fueled by disputes over land and grazing rights. Authorities have reiterated their commitment to addressing these conflicts to ensure peace and harmony in affected communities.
Credit: channelstv.com
