Many injured, properties destroyed in Tiv farmers, herders clash over water in Taraba

A fresh wave of communal violence has broken out in Bali Local Government Area of Taraba State, following a bloody clash between Tiv farmers and Fulani herders over access to a shared water source. The confrontation left several people injured and properties worth millions of naira destroyed.

The conflict reportedly began at a pond located between Tor Bali and Atongo villages, a vital water source for both communities. Tensions escalated when a woman fetching water confronted herders for allowing their cattle to pollute the pond.

According to reports, she was assaulted by the herders, triggering outrage and retaliation from members of her community.

Confirming the incident, the Chairman of Bali Local Government Council, Aboki Dauda, described the situation as unfortunate, noting that while no lives were lost, several homes were set ablaze and many residents displaced.

“What happened here was terrible,” Dauda said. “A woman was attacked after protesting the contamination of the pond by cattle. Her cries drew attention and led to a wider confrontation.”

He added that the council had summoned the leadership of the herder community and issued strong warnings to prevent further outbreaks of violence. “We’ve identified those responsible and made it clear that any repeat of such an incident will not be tolerated,” he warned.

One of the victims, Ezekiel Gboo from Tor Bali, shared his harrowing experience: “We were on our farm when they attacked us from all sides with sticks and machetes. I tried to escape, but they caught me. About 30 of them beat me mercilessly,” he recounted.

In response to the unrest, the Taraba State Government dispatched a high-level delegation led by the Commissioner for Special Duties and Humanitarian Affairs, Saviour Noku, to the affected communities. The delegation appealed for calm and delivered relief materials to displaced residents.

“We urge all residents to embrace peace,” Noku said. “Preventing crises is always better and cheaper than dealing with the aftermath. The relief items we’ve brought today are only temporary. The government will continue to support you as you rebuild and return to your homes.”

Tension remains high in the area as efforts continue to restore normalcy and prevent further violence.