Taiwo Popoola
Many people were reported injured and houses burnt in the Shimankar community, Shendam Local Government Area of Plateau State when violence erupted on Monday.
Residents are struggling to come to terms with the destruction following the incident which lasted several hours and has sent shockwaves through the community.
A former senatorial candidate for Plateau South, Mr Tobias Kwanmen, confirmed the development in Jos on Monday.
A source explained that the violence began as a clash between two groups, with reports suggesting that it was sparked by a disagreement over traditional rites and ritual performances in the community.
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 Muslim 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 condemned the violence, calling for calm and restraint, urging all parties involved to seek a peaceful resolution and to work towards maintaining peace and stability in their community.
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.”
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, calling 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.
