At least four people have been killed and over 45 others injured following an attack by suspected armed herders on Akunza-Ashigye community near Assakio in Lafia East Development Area, Nasarawa State.
An eyewitness, Mr. Jonathan Adamu, a resident of the community, told Vanguard that the attack may be linked to an unresolved conflict between Fulani herders and locals that had previously led to fatalities on both sides in 2024.
Adamu alleged that the latest attack was in retaliation for the killing of a Fulani herder last Sunday. He explained that two herders traveling on a motorcycle from a Lafia cattle market were ambushed shortly after crossing a bridge near Akunza-Ashigye, resulting in the death of one of them. According to Adamu, one of the herders identified an attacker from the community, sparking the reprisal attack.
Confirming the incident, Nasarawa State Police Public Relations Officer Rahman Nansel said three deaths had so far been confirmed. “Two persons died at the scene, while another succumbed to injuries at the hospital,” he stated.
Nansel added that the Commissioner of Police has ordered a massive deployment of security personnel to the area and that investigations into the attack have begun.
