- Eyewitnesses said the scene was characterized by utter chaos, pandemonium, gunfire, screams
A yet-to-be-ascertained number of people have reportedly lost their lives in a fresh outbreak of violence between communities in Jigawa State.
The communal violence happened in Gidan Nagari, Jahun Local Government Area of the State on Thursday night.
The attack comes just a week after a similar clash in Gululu village, also in Jahun.
Eyewitnesses said the scene was characterized by utter chaos, pandemonium, gunfire, screams, and razing of houses as residents fled for safety.
“We were awoken by the sound of gunfire and screams. People were running for their lives, and houses were being set on fire,” an anonymous eyewitness recounted.
Medical authorities at Jahun General Hospital have confirmed 10 fatalities, including nine men and one woman, with some victims burnt beyond recognition.
Locals of the affected community have called for calm and demanding decisive government intervention to address the root causes of the recurring violence.
“This latest incident has raised concerns about the escalating violence between the two communities,” said Malam Muhammad Kani, a local resident.
Another resident, Bala Dan Garba, stated the need for unity and restraint: “We must work together to prevent further violence and ensure that peace is restored to our communities.”
Victims were being buried as mourners gathered to pay their respects.
Jigawa State Police Command has confirmed the incident. Superintendent of Police Shi’isu Lawan stated: “The state command received a report of the incident which occurred yesterday (Thursday) night at Gidan Nagari village, Jahun Local Government Area.
“Our men and officers are currently at the scene of the incident, and details will be made available later as investigations are ongoing to ascertain the number of lives lost, injuries sustained, and properties damaged.”
Despite the severity of the incident, the Jigawa State government has yet to issue an official statement.
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