The land dispute between Mbaivuur and Mbasombo Communities of Ikpayongo Clan of Gwer Local Government area of Benue State, has claimed the lives of two persons, leaving many others injured.
The Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, Benue State Police Command, DSP Sewuese Anene confirmed this on Tuesday, in a telephone conversation with journalists in Makurdi.
Anene said only one casualty was recorded while about 10 houses were burnt.
The PPRO also stated that three persons have been arrested as investigation is still ongoing.
Meanwhile, our correspodent gathered that the Mbasombo youths attacked Mbaivur Community for allegedly killing one of their member, Ayagwa Amu leading to the fleeing of over 5000 persons from both communities.
READ ALSO: Three Persons Die As Benue Communities Fight Over Land
Narrating their ordeal, the President Mbasombo Development Association, Anchongo Abar, explained that trouble started when an elderly man from their area, Ayagwa Amu was macheted to death by youths suspected to come from Mbaivuur, last Sunday
“Prior to that day, the same youths from Mbaivuur allegedly attacked Igbasue Ayagwa while in the farm and macheted him, although he did not die, he is receiving treatment in the hospital.”
According to him, the Mbasombo youths in a reprisal, on Monday, razed over hundred houses belonging to the Mbaivur people including the family house of the Coordinator of Health, Catholic Diocese of Makurdi Rev. Fr. Peter Paleve and killed one Dekuran Nor.
The Mbaivur people however accused some of the traditional rulers and the LG Chairman of fueling the crises, even as they call on the Government to sanction anyone found to have a hand in the crises.
Our correspondent gathered from sources in the area that with the arrival of the Police led by the Commissioner, Mukaddas Garba at the scene of the crisis brought normalcy to the area.
