BREAKING: Six People Killed Over Land Tussle In Kogi State

Six People Killed in Fresh Land Dispute in Kogi State’s Bagana Community

Date: October 25, 2021

A renewed land dispute turned deadly in the Bagana community of Omala Local Government Area, Kogi State, on Monday, October 25th, leaving six people dead and multiple others injured.

According to eyewitnesses and local authorities, heavily armed gunmen attacked the community around 7:30 AM, taking advantage of the absence of young men who had left for farm work.

Casualties and Devastation as Violence Erupts

The early morning attack reportedly targeted vulnerable residents, mostly women, children, and the elderly.

Along with the fatalities, several others sustained major injuries, and properties worth millions were destroyed.

Among the wreckage were business premises, homes, and even the palace and vehicle of the community’s traditional ruler.

The incident has forced many residents to flee the area, abandoning homes and businesses.

Confirmed | Communal Clash Between Bagana and Patami

Local sources have confirmed that this is not a banditry-related attack but rather a prolonged land ownership crisis between the Bagana and Patami communities.

The Kogi State Police Command, through spokespersons and field teams, has verified the report, stating that it’s a communal conflict, not a terrorist-related event.

Authorities Respond Swiftly to Escalating Crisis

On visiting the community after the attack, Ibrahim Abo, Chairman of Omala LGA, urged residents, especially the youth, to remain calm and avoid reprisal.

To strengthen peace and prevent further escalation, Kogi State Commissioner of Police Dabban Idirisu has deployed a special task force to Bagana for on-ground assessment and monitoring.

Calls for Government Intervention Intensify

This incident adds to the growing calls for a permanent resolution of land-related conflicts in Kogi and across Nigeria.

Community leaders and civil societies have urged the state and federal governments to intervene with long-term solutions, including proper boundary demarcations, legal mediation, and sustained peacebuilding efforts.