Several people have been declared missing and many houses razed on Wednesday after fresh fight broke out between Tiv and Jukun people at Fidi suburb, opposite the Tactical Air Command of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) in Makurdi.
The incident is coming barely three weeks after the two ethnic groups clashed in the state, leading to the death of several lives.
The clash took another dimension early hours of today when the vicinity, popularly known as airport village, suddenly came under attack by arsonists who set many houses on fire.
The residents alleged that at least 20 or more houses were torched in the fresh fracas, including that of the Kindred Head of Kyurav, Uor Adi.
But the paramount traditional ruler of Makurdi Local Government Area, Ter Makurdi II, Dr. Sule Abenga, told newsmen that the matter was reported to him this morning by youths from the troubled community who marched in protest to his palace.
“They (youths) told me that several houses were burnt including that of my Kindred Head. They also alleged that some persons were missing but I’m yet to confirm that. I calmed them and urged them to exercise patience while I go to Gboko to brief the Tor Tiv about the development.
“I have just returned from Gboko and the Tor Tiv expressed need for calm so that the government could intervene in the matter. I have related the Tor Tiv message back to them and they have promised to remain calm,” Abenga said.
The Benue State Police Command’s spokesman, Moses Joel Yamu, who confirmed the incident, added that four people have been arrested in connection with the matter.
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