A violent clash between Tiv farmers and Fulani herders over access to a shared water source has erupted in Bali Local Government Area of Taraba State, leaving several people injured and properties worth millions of naira destroyed.
According to local authorities, the conflict originated at a pond situated between Tor Bali and Atongo villages, which serves as a crucial water source for both communities. The incident reportedly began when a woman fetching water confronted herders for allowing their cattle to drink from and contaminate the same water source, resulting in her being allegedly assaulted.
Aboki Dauda, the Council Chairman, confirmed the incident, stating: "What happened here was terrible; houses were burnt and people displaced, but thank God no lives were lost. 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."
Survivor's Account
Ezekiel Gboo from Tor Bali, who narrowly escaped death during the attack, recounted his harrowing experience: "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."
The Council Chairman disclosed that local authorities have since summoned the herders' leaders and issued stern warnings to prevent further violence. "We have identified those responsible. We made it clear to the herders' leadership that any repeat of this attack will not be tolerated," Dauda added.
Government Response
In response to the crisis, the Taraba State Government dispatched a high-powered delegation led by Saviour Noku, the Commissioner for Special Duties and Humanitarian Affairs, to the affected areas. The delegation appealed for peace and distributed relief materials to displaced residents.
"Let's try to live in peace with our neighbours," Noku urged residents during the visit. "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."
This latest incident adds to the history of communal tensions in Taraba State, where disputes over resources between farming and herding communities have frequently escalated into violence.
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