The Kebbi State Police Command says it will arraign the four suspects apprehended in connection with the killing of eight people during a farmers-herders confrontation in Gulma town, Argungu Local Government Area, of the state.
The command’s public relations officer, Bashir Usman, stated this in a statement on Thursday.
It was reported on Monday that no fewer than eight individuals were murdered in the brutal confrontation.
The incident was purportedly prompted by the alleged homicide of a farmer, who was believed to have been stabbed to death by a Fulani herder while working on his farmland.
The death prompted a retaliatory attack by certain members of the farming community, who allegedly stormed surrounding Fulani settlements, resulting in several casualties and increased tensions in the area.
In an update on the incident, Usman reported that four people had been arrested in connection with it.
He identified the four suspects as Musa Makera, Saidu Adamu, Shafi’u Hamza, and Adamu Madugu.
According to him, they will face charges in court once the investigations are completed.
He stated, “Further to the violent farmers-herders clash in Gulma Town, Argungu Local Government Area, the Kebbi State Police Command wishes to inform the public that four suspects have been arrested in connection with the incident, which resulted in the death of eight persons.
“The suspects, Adamu Madugu (male, Gulma), Musa Makera (male, Sauwa), Saidu Adamu (male, Sauwa), and Shafi’u Hamza (male, Gulma), are scheduled to be arraigned before a competent court on charges of criminal conspiracy, unlawful assembly, and culpable homicide.”
He mentioned that efforts were ongoing to arrest other suspects.
“The command has intensified efforts to identify, arrest, and bring to justice all other persons linked to the incident who are currently at large.
“The Commissioner of Police, Umar Hadejia, assures the families of the victims and the general public that the command will pursue the matter to its logical conclusion and ensure that all persons found culpable face the full weight of the law. He further urges residents to remain calm and law-abiding and to desist from taking the law into their own hands.
“The command remains committed to maintaining peace, protecting lives and property, and ensuring justice for all affected persons. Further updates will be provided as the investigation continues,” Usman concluded.
