Tension in Plateau as traditional worshippers, Muslim youths clash in Shimankar

Several houses have been set ablaze, and many people have sustained injuries following a violent clash between traditional worshippers and Muslim youths in Shimankar community, Shendam Local Government Area of Plateau State.

Reports indicate that religious and business centers were also torched during the unrest.

According to community sources, the violence erupted on Sunday night and escalated into Monday morning despite the presence of police officers and soldiers. The confrontation reportedly began when traditional worshippers passed through the area, leading to a disagreement with some Muslim youths, which soon turned violent.

Panic spread across the community as residents, including women and children, fled for safety, and business activities came to a halt.

As of the time of this report, the Plateau State Police Command’s spokesperson, DSP Alabo Alfred, had yet to issue a statement on the situation. However, Major Samson Zhakom, spokesperson for Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), a multi-security task force, assured that relevant authorities were being consulted.

Residents have called for an urgent deployment of security forces to restore peace in the area, as violence reportedly continues.