One person was injured, and at least 62 houses were destroyed when suspected herders attacked farming communities in the Bali Local Government Area of Taraba State.
The incident reportedly stemmed from a dispute over access to a communal water source—a pond located between the villages of Tor Bali and Atongo. The pond is used by both the Tiv farming communities and Fulani herders.
According to the Chairman of Bali LGA, Aboki Dauda, the conflict began when a woman fetching water at the pond was confronted by cattle drinking from the same source. After protesting the contamination of the water, she was allegedly assaulted by some herders.
“When the woman raised an alarm, her husband and other villagers came to her aid, which escalated the situation into a broader conflict,” Dauda explained. “As a result, houses were burnt and residents displaced. Thankfully, no lives were lost.”
Dauda said the local government summoned leaders of the herder community and warned them against any future attacks. He expressed concern over the unwillingness of some herders to follow guidance, even from their elders.
A farmer from Tor Baki village, Ezekiel Gboo, who survived the attack, recounted his experience. “We were working on the farm when we saw them approaching with sticks and machetes. I tried to escape and called our Tiv leader, who advised me to run to the police. I was caught, beaten with sticks and cutlasses, and left injured,” he said.
In response to the violence, the Taraba State Government dispatched a delegation to the affected areas to provide relief materials and promote peaceful coexistence. The team was led by Saviour Noku, the Commissioner for Special Duties and Humanitarian Affairs.
“We urge you to live in peace with your neighbors,” Noku told residents. “It’s better to prevent crises than to react after damage has been done. Today’s support is temporary—we have long-term plans to help you return to your homes.”
Also present was Veronica Alhassan, who represents Bali One Constituency in the State House of Assembly. She called on the communities to let go of bitterness and embrace peace.
The delegation also visited the palace of the Chief of Bakundi to seek his support in ensuring lasting peace in the area.
Additionally, the officials delivered relief items to residents of Garba Chede, where a recent windstorm claimed six lives and damaged over 200 homes.
