The Nasarawa State Police Command has confirmed that 11 people were killed following renewed violence between rival communities in Udege Development Area of Nasarawa Local Government Area.
The clash, which occurred in the early hours of Friday, involved residents of Akyawa and Udege Kasa, reportedly over longstanding disputes.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Ramhan Nansel, the tragic incident prompted the Commissioner of Police, Shetima Jauro Mohammed, to visit the affected communities on April 3 to assess the situation and restore calm.
During the visit, the CP expressed condolences to the families of the victims and the wider community, assuring them that justice would be pursued.
Police said the violence was triggered by a suspected reprisal attack linked to the earlier killing of two individuals. In the aftermath, 11 persons lost their lives, while about 50 houses were razed in Akyawa and two others destroyed in Udege Kasa.
The Commissioner has since ordered a full-scale manhunt for those responsible, directing tactical and investigative teams to ensure their arrest and prosecution.
To prevent further escalation, security has been reinforced in the area, with police working alongside the military and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps to maintain order and restore lasting peace.
Authorities also held a stakeholders’ meeting during the visit, urging residents to remain calm, obey the law, and support investigations by providing useful information.
While the police say normalcy has been restored, local reports suggest the attack may be linked to suspected armed groups, with residents alleging continued threats in nearby communities.
The latest violence is believed to follow a recent attack in Sabon Gida, where properties were also destroyed, heightening fears among residents.
Many locals say insecurity has worsened in recent times, forcing families to flee and disrupting economic activities, particularly in communities known for mining and farming.
Residents have called on the Nasarawa State Government to take urgent action to prevent further attacks, especially as the farming season begins amid growing uncertainty.