Scores injured as local hunters clash with herders in Taraba community

Tensions flared in Bali Local Government Area of Taraba State on May 24, as a water dispute led to a violent clash between Fulani herders and a local hunters’ group in Angwan Kuwait, a suburb of Bali town.

The altercation left at least nine herders injured, according to security sources.

The incident reportedly began when a group of Fulani herders attempted to fetch water for their cattle from a public well. However, they were allegedly confronted by a woman identified as Mrs. Nater Ayinaorga, who tried to stop them from using the well.

What started as a disagreement quickly escalated, drawing the attention of local hunters who became involved in the confrontation.

The situation quickly escalated when the herders reportedly beat up the woman. In response, she sought help from the local hunters association in Bali.

When the hunters attempted to apprehend the herders involved in the assault, a fight broke out, leading to the use of machetes and resulting in serious injuries to nine herders.

The victims, identified as Adamu Kantu, Haruna Kantu, Abdul Kantu, Adamu Kantu, Sani Kantu, Jibrin Kantu, Umar Kantu, Saidu Kantu, and Amadu Kantu, were rushed to Alura Clinic and the General Hospital in Bali town where they are currently receiving treatment.

Security sources confirmed the incident and said it was immediately reported to local authorities. The police have since launched an investigation.

The Vice Chairman of the Bali Hunters Group, Mr. Aloysius Vaakaa, was arrested by police officers for questioning, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend other members of the hunters group believed to have participated in the attack.

Photos obtained by Zagazola show several of the victims with deep machete cuts on their heads, arms, and backs, reinforcing the severity of the violence.

Security sources have assured that the general security situation in the area is calm, though unpredictable. They also confirmed that troops remain on standby to prevent further escalation.

Community leaders and stakeholders have been urged to intervene and ensure justice and reconciliation to avoid another round of violence, especially given the fragile security situation in parts of Taraba State where farmer-herder tensions have remained a persistent concern.