A fresh communal clash between two communities in Gwer East and Konshisha Local Government Areas of Benue State has led to the destruction of several houses and the displacement of numerous residents.

 

The conflict, which reportedly occurred over the weekend, is the latest in a series of recurring clashes between the Mbaiase community in Masev (Gwer East LGA) and the Gbinde community in Mbagusa, Mbatser, Shangev-Tiev (Konshisha LGA). Sources say the long-standing dispute between the two communities has escalated in recent months.

 

A local source, speaking under anonymity, revealed that the latest violence was a reprisal attack launched by the Mbaiase community on their Gbinde counterparts.

 

Media aide to the Executive Chairman of Konshisha LGA, Terhide Fave, confirmed the incident, stating that the Saturday evening attack resulted in the burning of an unconfirmed number of houses and widespread property damage. Though no casualties were reported, he noted that many families have been forced to flee to neighboring communities for safety.

 

“Residents have fled the area. Many houses were burnt, but I can’t confirm the exact number yet,” Fave said.

 

Chairman of Konshisha LGA, Terfa Moses Chikyaa, who visited the affected area, condemned the attack and appealed for calm. He urged the communities to refrain from further violence, assuring that the state government would act to bring those responsible to justice.

 

“The chairman advised the affected people not to take the law into their own hands as the state government would take steps to bring the perpetrators to justice,” Fave added.

 

Efforts to reach the Benue State Police Command spokesperson, CSP Catherine Anene, were unsuccessful, as calls to her mobile phone went unanswered.