A dispute over access to water in Ilughagba, Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State, escalated into a violent confrontation on Monday, leaving six people injured and several shops damaged.
The incident, which occurred around 6 p.m., reportedly began when a local resident fetching water from the only borehole in the community had his bucket removed by an unidentified member of the Hausa community, sparking a heated argument that soon turned into a larger clash.
According to an eyewitness, Bolu Dauda, six individuals sustained varying degrees of injuries and are currently receiving medical care.
The borehole at the center of the conflict was donated years ago by philanthropist and businessman Barr. Tunde Ayeni and remains the sole water source for the densely populated community.
Tensions over water access have been mounting, as Mangal Cement had previously committed to drilling six additional boreholes as part of a Community Development Agreement (CDA) to address the persistent water shortage.
However, the company has yet to fulfill this obligation, exacerbating frustrations among residents.
In response to the unrest, Ijumu Local Government Chairman, Alhaji Ibrahim Haruna, deployed security forces—including the Military, DSS, Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Kogi State Vigilante Service, and local hunters—to restore peace in the area.
He reassured residents of their rights to the community’s resources and urged for calm.
Concerned community members are now calling on the state government to intervene, ensure the implementation of the CDA agreement, and hold those responsible for the violence accountable to prevent future conflicts.
(Prompt news)