A fresh clash between Tiv farmers and Fulani herders in Bali Local Government Area of Taraba State has left many injured, with homes destroyed and hundreds displaced. The violence, which started over access to a shared water pond, has worsened already fragile relations between the two groups in the area.
The incident reportedly began at a pond located between Tor Bali and Atongo villages. Both the Tiv and Fulani communities depend on this pond for their daily water needs. Trouble started when a woman from the Tiv community was allegedly attacked by Fulani herders after she confronted them for allowing their cattle to drink directly from the water source.
Confirming the incident, Council Chairman Aboki Dauda noted that the woman’s cry for help drew others from her community to the scene. This led to a confrontation that quickly escalated into a broader conflict.
“What happened here was terrible; houses were burnt and people displaced, but thank God no lives were lost,” Dauda said.
“The herders brought their cattle to the pond, and in the process, polluted the water. A woman tried to stop them and was attacked. She cried out, and others came to her aid, which triggered the crisis,” he added.
Dauda also noted that the local council has taken steps to prevent further violence by summoning the leaders of the herders and issuing strong warnings. “We have identified those responsible. We made it clear to the herders’ leadership that any repeat of this attack will not be tolerated.”
One of the victims, Ezekiel Gboo, a farmer from Tor Bali, gave a chilling account of his encounter. “We were on the farm when they suddenly came from all directions with sticks and machetes. I tried to run and call for help but they caught me. About 30 of them beat me with sticks and cutlasses,” he said.
In an effort to calm the tension, the Taraba State Government sent a delegation led by the Commissioner for Special Duties and Humanitarian Affairs, Saviour Noku, to the scene. Relief items were shared with affected families.
“Let’s try to live in peace with our neighbours,” Noku urged. “It is always cheaper to prevent crises than to react to them. What we have brought today is just a temporary relief. We will continue to support your return and resettlement.”
