Gwagwalada, FCT – A violent communal clash erupted on Tuesday in Gurfata village, Gwagwalada Area Council, Federal Capital Territory, resulting in one fatality and the destruction of at least 31 homes.
Conflict Analyst Zagazola Makama reports that the conflict, involving Fulani and Gbagyi residents, was allegedly sparked by a dispute over access to farmland.
The confrontation began around 10:30 a.m. when Shaibu Adamu, a Fulani man, attempted to cross a farmland path belonging to Sa’adu, a Gwari farmer. Sa'adu objected, insisting Adamu use an alternative route.
This disagreement quickly escalated into a physical altercation, leaving both men with minor injuries.The incident regrettably reignited underlying ethnic tensions within the village.
The situation took a tragic turn when Adamu Ibrahim, Shaibu's elder brother, allegedly attacked a Gwari resident, Dahiru Yakubu, with a machete.
Yakubu was rushed to the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital but sadly succumbed to his injuries.News of Yakubu's death ignited a swift and devastating reprisal.
Enraged Gbagyi youths reportedly descended on the Fulani settlement in Gurfata, setting fire to 31 houses and injuring at least three other individuals.Nigerian Army troops and other joint security personnel were swiftly deployed to the area to quell the violence and restore order.
Authorities have since appealed for peace and urged both communities to exercise restraint. Efforts are currently underway to mediate between the groups and prevent any further escalation of the conflict.
As of Wednesday, a fragile calm has returned to Gurfata village, though tensions remain high among residents.
