Tsaragi Vs Share War: Churches Burnt, 4 Killed, Many Injured

Four people have been reported killed, about forty others injured, and over fifty houses burnt, as the Tsaragi and Share communities of Kwara state threaten to destroy each other. 

       (File Photo: Scene from a communal clash)

The resumed communal clashes between the two communities continued despite the government’s imposition of a 24 hour curfew.

According to The Vanguard, churches, mission houses and schools have also been incinerated during the clashes.

Witnesses revealed that suspected Nupe youths of Tsaragi attacked Share town in Ifelodun local government council of Kwara state, leaving about 40 people injured.

The state government in a statement issued a warning, saying: “The Kwara state government warns that anyone found with illegal arms and ammunition or disrupting peace and public order in both communities will be dealt with in line with the laws of the land.”

To that effect, soldiers from Sobi Army Baracks, Ilorin have already been drafted to the warring towns so as to support the anti-riot policemen drafted to the town on Saturday, December 19.

The government has further assured residents of its preparedness to deploy all lawful measures to ensure the welfare and security of all citizens.

Channels TV reports that other communities in the state are also urged to continue to live in peace with their neighbouring communities, as the full weight of the law would be brought to bear on anyone or group found inciting trouble in any part of the state no matter how highly placed.

Investigations into the cause of the war reveal that the rival communities have over the months had heated debates over a certain parcel of land. It is still not clear to which faction the land belongs as there are no clear demarcations or boundaries.