Niger Governor Umaru Bago announces N1m compensation for victims of the Rafi communal clash, orders arrests of suspects and unveils measures to restore peace.
Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago of Niger State has announced a relief package of N1 million for families affected by the recent communal violence that erupted between Fulani and Kamuku communities in Rafi Local Government Area, as part of efforts to support victims and restore peace.
The governor made the announcement during a visit to Kagara, headquarters of the Kagara Emirate, where he met with traditional rulers, government officials, security agencies, and residents following the deadly confrontation that left several people dead, many injured, and numerous homes destroyed.
Describing the incident as a painful tragedy, Bago expressed sympathy to families who lost loved ones and to residents whose properties were damaged in the violence.
He stressed that no community benefits from conflict and urged all parties to embrace peaceful dialogue instead of retaliation.
According to the governor, the financial assistance will not only go to the families of those killed but will also be extended to individuals receiving treatment for injuries sustained during the crisis as well as residents whose homes were destroyed.
He said the intervention is aimed at helping affected families begin the process of rebuilding their lives after suffering heavy losses.
While addressing stakeholders at the palace of the Emir of Kagara, Governor Bago identified land-related disputes as one of the major factors that contributed to the crisis.
He alleged that the activities of some land title holders within the emirate created tension, which was further aggravated by the conduct of certain members of local vigilante groups.
The governor noted that such issues, if left unchecked, could continue to threaten peace in the area.
He therefore called for greater cooperation among traditional institutions, community leaders, and security agencies to address the root causes of communal disputes before they escalate into violence.
Governor Bago also directed individuals identified as having played roles in the violence to immediately report themselves to the Niger State Police Command headquarters in Minna.
He warned that anyone who fails to comply with the directive would face arrest and prosecution, insisting that nobody is above the law regardless of status or influence.
He equally cautioned political actors within the emirate against encouraging actions capable of creating division among residents.
According to him, reports suggesting that some politicians allowed their supporters to fuel the unrest were disturbing and unacceptable.
The governor urged political leaders to use their influence to promote peace rather than deepen existing tensions, adding that leadership should always be exercised with responsibility and a commitment to public safety.
As part of measures to prevent future conflicts, Bago announced a new directive prohibiting the sale of land anywhere within the Kagara Emirate without proper approval from both the Emirate Council and the relevant government authorities.
He explained that regulating land transactions would help reduce disputes over ownership and improve transparency.
He also appealed to residents to stop taking the law into their own hands whenever disagreements arise.
Instead, he encouraged them to report complaints to law enforcement agencies and other appropriate authorities for peaceful resolution.
The governor further instructed the Emir of Kagara to ensure that district and ward leadership positions reflect the ethnic diversity of communities within the emirate.
He said appointing leaders from different tribes would promote inclusiveness, strengthen unity, and improve community representation.
Responding to the governor’s remarks, the Emir of Kagara, Alhaji Ahmad Garba Attahiru II, appreciated the visit and described the governor’s intervention as timely.
He said the communal clash was unfortunate and could have been avoided if grievances had been resolved peacefully.
The traditional ruler assured the state government that the Kagara Emirate Council would work closely with the Rafi Local Government Council, security agencies, and community stakeholders to prevent another outbreak of violence.
He also appealed to residents to reject violence and support ongoing reconciliation efforts aimed at restoring trust between the affected communities.
The latest intervention by the Niger State Government comes amid growing concerns over recurring communal clashes in parts of the state, many of which have been linked to disputes over land, grazing routes, and other local issues.
Analysts believe that beyond emergency relief, sustained dialogue, improved security, and fair conflict resolution mechanisms will be essential to achieving lasting peace in the affected communities.
Governor Bago maintained that his administration remains committed to protecting lives and property while ensuring that those responsible for criminal acts are brought to justice.
He emphasized that peace, justice, and inclusive governance remain critical to the development and stability of Niger State.
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