The Niger State Police Command has deployed officers to Chimbi village in Paikoro Local Government Area to restore order after a violent clash erupted between the Hausa and Gbagyi communities over a land dispute. The conflict, which began early Sunday morning, resulted in the burning of properties, though no lives were lost, according to the state police spokesperson, Wasiu Abiodun.
In a statement, Abiodun confirmed that the clash was triggered by a dispute over a piece of land where Gbagyi women traditionally sell firewood in Chimbi village, Kaffin-koro area. “There occurred a fight between two groups of Gbagyi and Hausa tribes in the early hours of today, 23rd March, 2025, over a piece of land where Gbagyi women sell firewood,” he said. “The incident resulted in the burning of properties. However, no life was lost, but security operatives have been deployed to the area to restore normalcy.”
Videos and photos circulating on social media showed parts of the community engulfed in flames, with gunfire heard in the background. The swift deployment of security forces aims to prevent further escalation and ensure the safety of residents.
The Gbagyi people, an indigenous group in Niger State, have a long history of land-related conflicts, particularly with Fulani herders. These disputes often stem from competition over farmland and grazing areas, exacerbated by historical grievances and mistrust between the communities. Similar clashes have occurred in recent years, leading to loss of life, displacement, and economic disruption.
In July 2016, a confrontation between Gbagyi farmers and Fulani herders in Bara-kuta, Bosso Local Government Area, left four people dead and displaced approximately 250 residents. The violence was fueled by disagreements over land use and grazing rights. More recently, in August 2024, a clash in Barkuta, Beji district of Bosso LGA, erupted after herders allegedly killed a prominent Gbagyi farmer. The incident resulted in several casualties and forced many residents to flee their homes.
The recurring nature of these conflicts highlights the deep-rooted tensions over land and resources in the region. Both the Gbagyi and Fulani communities rely heavily on land for agriculture and grazing, making disputes inevitable without effective conflict resolution mechanisms. The situation is further complicated by historical grievances and a lack of trust between the groups.
In the aftermath of the August 2024 clash in Barkuta, the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association instructed its members to boycott a major market in Niger State, underscoring the broader economic impact of the ongoing tensions. The boycott disrupted trade and highlighted the interconnectedness of the communities, as well as the far-reaching consequences of such conflicts.
The Niger State government and security agencies face the challenge of addressing the immediate violence while also working toward long-term solutions to prevent future clashes. Efforts to mediate between the communities, establish clear land-use policies, and promote dialogue are essential to achieving lasting peace.
As security forces work to restore calm in Chimbi village, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for sustainable conflict resolution strategies in Niger State. The recurring violence not only threatens lives and property but also undermines social cohesion and economic stability in the region.
The deployment of police to Chimbi is a critical step in preventing further violence, but lasting peace will require a comprehensive approach that addresses the underlying causes of these conflicts and fosters mutual understanding between the communities.
