Nine injured as hunters, herders fight ‘over public well’ in Taraba

At least nine herders sustained injuries in a violent clash with local hunters over access to a public well in Bali LGA of Taraba state.

According to Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency publication focused on the Lake Chad region, the incident happened on Saturday evening in Angwan Kuwait, a suburb of Bali town, following a dispute over access to water for livestock.

“Security sources said the confrontation began when some Fulani herders attempted to fetch water for their cattle from a public well in the area but were allegedly stopped by a woman, identified as Mrs. Nater Ayinaorga, 32,” the publication explained.

“The situation quickly escalated when the herders reportedly beat up the woman. In response, she sought help from the local hunters association in Bali.

“When the hunters attempted to apprehend the herders involved in the assault, a fight broke out, leading to the use of machetes and resulting in serious injuries to nine herders.

“The victims, identified as Adamu Kantu, Haruna Kantu, Abdul Kantu, Adamu Kantu, Sani Kantu, Jibrin Kantu, Umar Kantu, Saidu Kantu, and Amadu Kantu, were rushed to Alura Clinic and the General Hospital in Bali town where they are currently receiving treatment.

“Security sources confirmed the incident and said it was immediately reported to local authorities. The police have since launched an investigation.

“The Vice Chairman of the Bali Hunters Group, Mr. Aloysius Vaakaa, was arrested by police officers for questioning, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend other members of the hunters group believed to have participated in the attack.

“Photos obtained by Zagazola show several of the victims with deep machete cuts on their heads, arms, and backs, reinforcing the severity of the violence.

“Security sources have assured that the general security situation in the area is calm, though unpredictable. They also confirmed that troops remain on standby to prevent further escalation.”

Makama added that community leaders have been asked to intervene for justice and reconciliation to prevent further violence in Taraba, where farmer-herder clashes have remained persistent.