The Jigawa Police Command has confirmed herdsmen attacks on four communities within the Birninkudu, Dutse, and Kiyawa Local Government Areas of Jigawa State. The attacks, which involved large numbers of herdsmen armed with bows and arrows, machetes, and sticks, left eight people injured. These victims have since been hospitalized at the Dutse General Hospital for medical treatment.
In a statement released on Saturday by the command’s spokesman, Lawal Adams, it was detailed how the herdsmen invaded Baranda village and began their assault on the villagers. The residents of Baranda, in an attempt to defend themselves, engaged in a confrontation that resulted in the injuries of eight villagers. These injured individuals were quickly taken to Dutse General Hospital to receive the necessary medical attention.
The severity of the situation prompted immediate action from the Jigawa State Police Commissioner, Ahmed T. Abdullahi. In a bid to foster community engagement, resolve conflicts, and build peace within the Dutse emirate and the state at large, Commissioner Abdullahi, along with Squadron Commander 35PMF Dutse, Area Commander Dutse, and the Divisional Police Officers of Dutse and Kiyawa Divisions, visited the four affected villages. These villages, namely Kalai, Waza, Baranda, and Katanga, are located in the Dutse, Kiyawa, and Birnin Kudu Local Government Areas and had recently been the sites of hostilities between farmers and herdsmen. These clashes resulted in numerous injuries and significant damage to farmlands.
During these visits, Commissioner Abdullahi held meetings with both herders and farmers. The primary aim of these meetings was to promote synergy, tolerance, and mutual understanding among the community members. Adams emphasized that the Commissioner stressed the importance of not taking the law into their own hands. Instead, he encouraged the reporting of any mischief, encroachment on cattle routes, or other offenses to the nearest police station or other security agencies for immediate action.
Commissioner Abdullahi’s interaction with the stakeholders of both the herders and farmers highlighted the critical need for collaboration and understanding between the two groups. He reiterated the importance of avoiding any actions that could lead to further violence or unrest. By fostering a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect, he hoped to prevent future incidents similar to the recent herdsmen attacks.
The Commissioner’s efforts come just a week after a significant ceremony held at Kabak village in the Kirikasamma Local Government Area. This event, organized by the Jigawa State Government, celebrated the peaceful return and restored confidence between herdsmen and farmers in the state. The ceremony underscored the state’s commitment to maintaining peace and harmony among its diverse communities.
The recent herdsmen attacks have once again highlighted the underlying tensions between farmers and herders in the region. These tensions often arise due to competition over land and resources, with herders moving their cattle through farmland, sometimes causing damage to crops. The resulting conflicts can escalate quickly, as seen in the recent incidents in Jigawa State.
In response to these attacks, the Jigawa State Police Command is working tirelessly to ensure that peace and order are restored in the affected communities. By engaging directly with both herders and farmers, the police aim to address the root causes of the conflict and promote a peaceful coexistence. This approach includes educating both groups on the importance of respecting each other’s livelihoods and finding common ground to resolve disputes.
The state government, in collaboration with the police, is also looking at long-term solutions to prevent such conflicts in the future. This includes creating clear and mutually agreed-upon cattle routes that do not infringe on farmland, as well as implementing community policing strategies that involve local leaders in maintaining peace and security.
The Jigawa State Government’s efforts to celebrate the peaceful return of herdsmen and farmers in Kabak village are a testament to the possibility of achieving lasting peace through dialogue and cooperation. The recent herdsmen attacks serve as a reminder of the challenges that still need to be addressed, but they also highlight the progress that has been made in fostering better relationships between different community groups.
As the situation develops, it is crucial for all stakeholders to continue working together to build trust and understanding. By doing so, they can create a more harmonious environment where both herders and farmers can thrive without fear of violence or conflict. The Jigawa Police Command remains committed to this goal and will continue to take proactive measures to ensure the safety and security of all residents in the state.