Violence broke out in Shimankar, a community in Shendam Local Government Area of Plateau State, on Monday, leaving several people injured and many houses destroyed by fire.
The incident, which started in the early hours of the morning and lasted for several hours, has left residents in shock as they struggle to deal with the aftermath of the destruction.
Eyewitnesses said the conflict began as a disagreement between two groups, reportedly over traditional rites and rituals. It quickly turned violent, leading to the burning of homes and businesses.
A resident of the area and former senatorial candidate for Plateau South, Mr. Tobias Kwanmen, confirmed the incident in a statement to PUNCH Metro in Jos.
Kwanmen said, “The issue started as a little dispute between some traditional worshipers and some Muslim groups in the community. From what I was told, the traditionalists went to perform their normal ritual in a place within the community but they were resisted by some Muslims who did not allow them, leading to disagreement and violence.”
Security forces were quickly sent to the area to control the situation, while local leaders, including councillors, have been working to restore peace. However, the full extent of the damage is still being assessed.
Kwanmen condemned the violence and called for peace, urging all groups involved to find a way to resolve their differences without further conflict. He said, “We urge all parties involved to seek peaceful resolution and to work towards maintaining peace and stability in our community.”
