Violent clash in Plateau community leaves many injured, homes burnt

Residents of the Shimankar community in Shendam Local Government Area of Plateau State are reeling from the aftermath of a violent clash that erupted on Monday, leaving several people injured and numerous houses set ablaze.  

According to sources, the unrest stemmed from a disagreement over traditional rites and ritual performances, escalating into a full-blown conflict between two groups.

The violence lasted for several hours, causing significant destruction and fear among locals.

Confirming the incident, a former senatorial candidate for Plateau South, Mr. Tobias Kwanmen, acknowledged the severity of the situation in Jos on Monday.

He stated that the situation was said to have quickly escalated, with homes and businesses being set ablaze.

According to Kwanmen, the issue started as a little dispute between some traditional worshipers and some Muslims groups in the community, saying that from what he was told, the traditionalists went to perform their normal ritual in a place within the community but they were resisted by some Muslims who did not allow them, leading to disagreement and violence.

He said, “the extent of the damage is still being assessed; security agents were quickly deployed to the scene, with other stakeholders, including councillors working to restore normalcy in the community.”

He condemned the violence, calling for calm and restraint, urging all parties involved to seek peaceful resolution and to work towards maintaining peace and stability in their community.

The spokesperson for the state police command, DSP Alabo Alfred, had yet to respond to inquiries about the development.

However, the State Government has confirmed the clashes, calming for calm.

This was contained in a press statement signed by the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Joyce Ramnap.

The state government expressed deep concern and displeasure over the breach of peace, which it said unfortunately caused unnecessary tension within the community.