A chieftaincy dispute in the Naniik and Binbagu communities of the Bunkpurugu/Nakpanduri District in the North East Region has led to the death of one person, injuries to several others, and the burning of numerous houses.
According to Channel One News, residents fled their homes, abandoning belongings as violence erupted.
Sunday Batowani, General Manager of Pib-ri FM, a local radio station in Binde-Bunkpurugu, reported that the conflict began when the Youth Chief of Naniik was shot while with an individual named Elijah. Elijah was killed instantly, with his body temporarily stored at the Binde hospital morgue.
Tensions escalated with a second attack on September 23, just as preparations were being made for Elijah’s burial. In response, the Naniik community launched a retaliatory strike, causing mass evacuations from both areas.
Batowani confirmed that local authorities have imposed a curfew from 5:30 am to 6 pm to contain the unrest.
Three individuals are currently receiving medical treatment for injuries, with some also suffering snake bites sustained while fleeing.
The District Security Council is working to restore peace, and further information on their efforts is being sought.