The number of fatalities resulting from the ongoing communal conflict in the Rafi Local Government Area of Niger State has climbed to 18. This increase follows additional violent clashes tied to a persistent land disagreement involving the Fulani and Kamuku communities.
SP Wasiu Abiodun, the spokesperson for the state police, confirmed that the tensions stem from a deep-seated dispute between the two groups. Authorities reported that on June 29 at approximately 11:30 p.m., assailants targeted Godoro village, resulting in the death of 25-year-old Ibrahim Musa. This incident triggered a retaliatory strike by a local vigilante group known as Yansakai, which led to the killing of 28-year-old Bashir Mazi.
Subsequent violence on July 1 caused further tragedy. According to reports, 15 individuals perished when a two-bedroom residence in Angwan-Baago, near Godoro village, was set ablaze. A separate fatality was recorded elsewhere, pushing the total death toll to 18.
In response, local government officials have established a reconciliation committee to coordinate with community leaders and law enforcement to stabilize the region. Security forces have ramped up joint patrols involving both police and military personnel to deter further aggression and protect residents while official investigations continue.
