Isiyaku Ahmed
The Ukomu Igala Organization (UIO) has expressed deep sadness over the recent violent clashes between local farmers and herdsmen in Ejule-Ojebe town, Ibaji Local Government Area of Kogi State, which claimed lives and left many residents missing.
Reports also indicate widespread destruction of farmlands, crops, and cattle during the unrest.
In a statement signed by Maj. Gen. James A. Ataguba (rtd), National Leader of UIO, the organization, commiserated with families affected by the incident and urged all parties to immediately lay down their arms and refrain from further violence.
The UIO also appealed to the Kogi State Government to intervene urgently to prevent further escalation, and called on the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to act swiftly and decisively to forestall potential reprisal attacks.
Highlighting the broader socio-economic challenges in Igala land, the organization noted that Kogi State, particularly Ibaji Local Government Area, has been grappling with insecurity, poverty, and lack of basic infrastructure, despite being listed recently among Nigeria’s oil-producing communities.
According to the statement, decades of governmental neglect have left residents vulnerable, with fishing ponds and arable farmlands already degraded by climate change and unregulated herdsmen’s activities.
“The people of Ibaji cannot afford further violent clashes with attendant loss of lives and properties at this time,” the statement said, urging both state and federal governments to investigate the root causes of recurring communal unrest, using the Ejule-Ojebe incident as a case study for achieving lasting peace.
The organization further called on residents to remain calm, vigilant, and report any incident capable of escalating tensions to law enforcement agencies.
The UIO extended heartfelt condolences to all bereaved families and victims of property loss, praying for comfort and resilience for the affected communities.
