18 Killed as Communal Clash Turns Deadly in Niger State

At least 18 people have been killed in a renewed communal clash linked to a longstanding land dispute in Rafi Local Government Area of Niger State, with 15 victims reportedly burnt alive after attackers set a residential building on fire. The latest violence has heightened concerns over the persistent communal tensions in the area.

According to the Niger State Police Command, the attack occurred on Tuesday night at Angwan-Baago, near Godoro village, where assailants allegedly locked victims inside a two-bedroom apartment before setting it ablaze. Fifteen people died in the fire, while another victim was killed at a separate location, bringing the total death toll to 18.

Police authorities said the violence stemmed from a protracted land dispute between two neighbouring communities that has repeatedly triggered deadly confrontations. Security personnel have since been deployed to the affected communities to restore order, prevent further attacks and investigate those responsible for the killings.

The Commissioner of Police assured residents that efforts were underway to apprehend the perpetrators and urged community leaders to embrace dialogue rather than violence in resolving disputes. He also appealed to members of the public to cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information that could aid ongoing investigations.

The latest incident adds to growing concerns over communal conflicts in parts of Nigeria, where disputes over land, boundaries and local resources have continued to claim lives and displace communities despite repeated peace interventions.