A violent confrontation between two families over a land dispute has left one man dead and several others injured.
The incident occurred over the weekend in Kopkopshe village, located in Loham ward of Tunkus, Mikang Local Government Area, Plateau State.
Reports indicate that the families have been in conflict for more than two years over the rightful heir to the farmland.
Chairman of the Mikang Local Government Council, Dr. Benard Soepding Alkali, has visited the scene of conflict to assess the level of damage caused.
According to a statement issued on Monday, July 1, Alkali strongly condemned the outbreak of violence, describing it as unnecessary and unacceptable.
He emphasised that such conflicts undermine his administration’s efforts to foster peace and unity among the four ethnic groups in the council.
The chairman expressed dismay over the conflict and assured the community that the government has taken prompt measures to prevent further escalation.
He stated that the governor is aware of the sad event and mandated him to assess the level of damage and engage the two families to come up with a lasting solution.
“It’s shameful that while the government is committed to protecting our lands from external forces and land grabbers, we are also fighting and killing ourselves over land. This will frustrate government efforts, as when brothers fight over land, a stranger inherits,” he said.
The chairman encouraged the people of Kopkopshe village to live in harmony and peace, emphasising that God did not make mistakes by bringing them together.
The son of the deceased, Mr. Felix Bagen, shared a harrowing account of the incident, detailing how his father was brutally killed over the land dispute. He explained that the conflict had been ongoing for five years, with a pending court case.
Bagen urged the government to come to their rescue by taking ownership of the land until the law decides otherwise.
Mr. Saty Woldut, a community leader, appreciated the chairman for his visit and assured him of peaceful coexistence in the community.
Long Lalin, leader of the Mikang legislative arm and councillor representing Luham ward, urged community leaders to engage their youths and warned them against taking actions that would further disrupt the peace enjoyed for decades.
