Fresh Communal Clash in Ibaji, Kogi Leaves Two Dead, Houses Burnt
At least two persons have been killed and several houses destroyed following renewed communal violence between Itale and Ishi communities in Ibaji Local Government Area of Kogi State.
IBAJI, KOGI — Fresh violence has broken out between the Itale and Ishi communities in Ibaji Local Government Area of Kogi State, leaving at least two persons dead and several properties destroyed.
The latest confrontation, which occurred on Tuesday afternoon, is believed to be connected to a lingering communal dispute involving ownership of farmlands and fishing areas within the axis.
Residents said armed youths suspected to have invaded Ishi community launched an attack that led to the destruction of houses, food storage facilities, and other valuables worth millions of naira.
Eyewitnesses reported that panic spread across the community as gunshots forced residents, particularly women and children, to flee to neighbouring settlements for safety.
A resident of the area, Omachonu Atule, alleged that the attackers stormed the community at about 3:30 p.m., triggering widespread fear and displacement.
“People ran in different directions to escape. Several houses were burnt and many residents are still unaccounted for,” he said.
Another community member, Apeh Kelvin, linked the latest violence to unresolved tensions from an earlier clash in November 2025, during which lives were also lost in Itale community.
He explained that although efforts had been made through peace meetings and community engagements, the crisis persisted without a lasting resolution.
The Kogi State Police Command confirmed the incident, stating that security operatives were immediately deployed after receiving a distress call from the area on May 6, 2026.
According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Saliu Oyiza Afusat, the Commissioner of Police, Naziru Kankarofi, directed a joint security operation to the affected communities to contain the situation.
The police said operatives met a volatile scene on arrival, with several structures and farm produce already destroyed by fire.
“The joint security team responded swiftly, dispersed the hoodlums and restored calm in the area,” the statement noted.
Security personnel reportedly recovered two male bodies from separate locations within Ishi community, while another victim suffering from gunshot injuries was evacuated to the General Hospital in Idah for medical attention.
The police also disclosed that 57 expended cartridges were recovered during preliminary investigations at the scene.
Authorities said individuals suspected to have played roles in the violence had been identified from both communities, adding that investigations were ongoing to ensure those responsible are brought to justice.
The command further assured residents that security operatives had been stationed in the area to forestall further breakdown of law and order.
Residents were urged to remain peaceful and cooperate with security agencies by providing useful information that could assist ongoing investigations and peace efforts.