At least 11 people have been confirmed dead and dozens of homes razed following a violent clash between two communities in Nasarawa State, sparking fresh concerns over insecurity in the region.
The deadly confrontation, which occurred on Friday between residents of Akyawa and Udege Kasa communities, also left about 52 houses destroyed, with Akyawa bearing the brunt of the devastation.
The Nasarawa State Police Command, which confirmed the casualties on Saturday, said 50 houses were burnt in Akyawa, while two others were destroyed in Udege Kasa during the unrest.
In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Ramhan Nansel, the Commissioner of Police, CP Shetima Mohammed, described the incident as tragic and extended condolences to affected families during an on-the-spot assessment visit to the communities.
He called on residents to remain calm and support security agencies with credible information that could aid ongoing investigations.
The police boss also ordered a comprehensive manhunt for those responsible, directing tactical and investigative teams to ensure swift arrest and prosecution of the perpetrators.
To forestall further violence, he announced the deployment of additional security personnel, working in collaboration with the military and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, to stabilise the affected areas and maintain law and order.
According to the command, normalcy has since been restored, with security agencies maintaining a strong presence to prevent a recurrence.
However, conflicting accounts have emerged over the cause of the violence, with some residents alleging that armed bandits were behind the attack.
Locals also linked the incident to an earlier assault on nearby Sabon Gida community, also known as Gidan Ada Ogiri, where properties and farm produce were reportedly destroyed.
The latest bloodshed has heightened fears among residents, as authorities intensify efforts to uncover the circumstances surrounding the attack and avert further escalation.