One killed, farm settlement set ablaze in Bayelsa clash

Tensions flared in Bayelsa State’s Yenagoa Local Government Area as a clash between residents of Akaibiri and Bumoundi communities and Anam farmers led to the death of one person and the burning of a farm settlement. The Anam farmers, originating from Anambra State, have been engaged in commercial farming across various parts of Bayelsa.

The conflict reportedly began on October 6, following the alleged murder of Mr. Apah Abel from the Bumoundi community, who was accused of theft at the farm settlement. In response, the indigenes of Akaibiri and Bumoundi launched a retaliatory attack, setting the settlement ablaze.

The Bayelsa State Police Command confirmed that two suspects are in custody in connection with Abel’s killing. The State Commissioner of Police, Alonyenu Idu, represented by Deputy Commissioner Gabriel Elaigwu, urged both the communities and Anam farmers to avoid taking the law into their own hands, assuring that a thorough investigation is underway.