A violent communal conflict between the communities of Oturpo-Ojile and Ochi-Ibadan in the Ankpa Local Government Area of Kogi State has resulted in the deaths of two individuals and the destruction of over 70 homes.
The conflict was sparked when villagers from Ochi-Ibadan allegedly murdered a man from Oturpo-Ojile who was returning home from Lagos. In retaliation, youths from Oturpo-Ojile reportedly set fire to more than 70 houses in Ochi-Ibadan.
Hon. Akus Lawal, the representative for Ankpa I state constituency, confirmed the incident during a session of the Kogi State House of Assembly.
He stated, “The sad incident occurred on January 14, 2024. The communal clash between two communities is very worrisome and should not repeat itself again.
We were informed that the death of one man from Oturpo-Ojile while returning from a journey led to a reprisal by his people on Ochi-Ibadan village, who they accused to have caused the death of their son. Over 70 houses and many properties in Ochi-Ibadan were burned down.”
He praised the swift response of the Commissioner of Police and the Kogi State Government under Alhaji Yahaya Bello and expressed hope that such a clash would not occur again. He also urged the Kogi State Emergency Management Agency to provide immediate assistance to those affected by the conflict.
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SP William Aya, the spokesperson for the state police command, verified the incident. He reported that Peter and another individual were killed in a mob action following the clash. He stated, “Thirty houses were razed while several properties were destroyed.”
He confirmed that the state commissioner of police, Bethrand Onuoha, had visited the affected communities and that order had been restored.
(PUNCH)