Two lives were lost and 70 houses were set ablaze during a communal clash between Oturpo-Ojile and Ochi-Ibadan communities in Kogi State.
The conflict ensued when villagers from Ochi-Ibadan allegedly killed a man from Oturpo-Ojile who was returning from Lagos.
In retaliation, youths from Oturpo-Ojile, fuelled by grief, launched a reprisal attack on Ochi-Ibadan, resulting in the widespread destruction of homes.
Also Read:
- Breaking: Tinubu okays relocation of 29 correctional centres from urban areas
- None of 31 requests to create new states met constitutional requirements – Deputy Speaker
- The witches on Portable’s road to madness (2), by Tunde Odesola
- Oyebanji bags New Telegraph Newspaper’s Governor of the Year Award
- Calabar Itu Road: Residents jubilate reopening.
The Representative of Ankpa 1 State Constituency in Kogi House of Assembly, Honourable Akus Lawal, on Thursday, at a plenary session, confirmed the incident.
Lawal said, “The sad incident occurred on 14th January, 2024, The communal clash between two communities is very worrisome and should not repeat itself again.
” We were informed that the death of a man from Oturpo-Ojile led to a reprisal attack.”
Lawal acknowledged the swift response of the Kogi State government and the Commissioner of Police, who conducted an on-the-spot assessment.
While commending the authorities for their prompt intervention, Lawal appealed to the Kogi State Emergency Management Agency to provide immediate relief materials for the victims.
The Spokesman of the State’s Police Command, SP William Aya, who also confirmed the incident, revealed that Samuel Peter and another victim lost their lives due to mob action.
Aya confirmed that 30 houses were burnt and numerous properties were destroyed.
The State’s Commissioner of Police, Bethrand Onuoha, visited both communities, ensuring that normalcy has been restored.
Follow The Eagle Online Channel on WhatsApp
