Communal Clash Claims One Life, 70 Houses Burnt in Kogi

A fatal clash unfolded between two communities in Kogi State, resulting in the death of one person, and more than 70 houses were set ablaze.

The communal clash occurred between Oturpo-Ojile and Ochi-Ibadan communities, both located in the Ankpa Local Government Area of Kogi State

The conflict started when some villagers in Ochi-Ibadan allegedly killed a man from Oturpo-Ojile, who it was gathered, was returning from Lagos to his village (Oturpo-Ojile).

Fueled by grief over the loss of one of their own, angered youths from Oturpo-Ojile reportedly carried out a retaliatory attack by allegedly setting ablaze over 70 houses.

The incident was confirmed by Hon. Akus Lawal, the representative of Ankpa I State Constituency, during Thursday’s plenary session on the floor of the Kogi State House of Assembly.

He said, “The sad incident occurred on 14th January 2024. The communal clash between two communities is very worrisome and should not repeat itself. We were informed that the death of one man from Oturpo-Ojile, while returning from a journey, led to a reprisal attack by his people on Ochi-Ibadan village which they accused of having caused the death of their son.

“Over 70 houses and many properties in Ochi-Ibadan were burnt down.

“We must commend the Commissioner of Police who went to this community for an on-the-spot assessment and the Kogi State Government under Alhaji Yahaya Bello for the quick response. We are praying that such communal clash will not happen in our land again.”

However, he appealed to the Kogi State Emergency Management Agency, urging them to swiftly provide relief materials for all the victims affected by the communal clash.

Kanyi Daily recalls that communal clash broke out in the early hours of Monday in the 3rd Avenue area of Gwarimpa Estate in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.