A violent clash between the Akaibiri and Bumoundi communities in Yenagoa Local Government Area of Bayelsa State and Anam farmers from Anambra State has left one person dead and a farm settlement destroyed by fire.
The conflict reportedly began on October 6, after Mr. Apah Abel, a resident of Bumoundi, was allegedly killed at the Anam farm settlement on accusations of theft. In retaliation, the indigenes of Akaibiri and Bumoundi set the farm settlement ablaze.
Anam farmers have long operated in Bayelsa State, cultivating crops for commercial purposes in various farm settlements. However, the recent violence has escalated tensions between the communities and the farmers.
The Bayelsa State Police Command confirmed the arrest of two suspects in connection with Abel’s death. The Police Commissioner, Alonyenu Idu, represented by Deputy Commissioner of Police Gabriel Elaigwu of the State Criminal Investigation Department, reassured the public that a thorough investigation would be carried out to bring the perpetrators to justice. He also urged both the Akaibiri and Bumoundi communities and the Anam farmers to refrain from taking the law into their own hands.
During a meeting with state officials, Bayelsa State Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, called on non-indigenes to respect local authorities and maintain peace. He emphasized the importance of respecting the laws and traditional practices of host communities to promote peaceful coexistence.
Ewhrudjakpo, in a statement released by his Senior Special Assistant on Media, Mr. Doubara Atasi, urged landlords to introduce non-indigenous residents to community leaders to aid in the identification of criminals and prevent further violence. He also advised local community leaders to stay within their domains and fulfill their responsibilities to ensure stability.
“I appeal to all communities in Ekpetiama to maintain peace. The Commissioner of Police should coordinate with other security agencies to ensure a security presence in the area until the situation is fully resolved,” said Ewhrudjakpo. “We also encourage communities to establish vigilante groups to prevent incidents like this. As for the Anam farmers, you have no right to kill a thief. If theft occurs, report it to the police or the host community leaders.”
The Ibenanaowei of Ekpetiama Clan, HRM King Bubaraye Dakolo (Agada IV), praised the state government for its swift intervention, preventing a further breakdown of law and order. He urged law enforcement to ensure that those responsible for Abel’s killing and the burning of the farm settlement face justice, while also calling on the Anam farmers to respect local customs and leadership.
Chief Bernard Ozoekwe, representing the Anam farmers, expressed gratitude to the state government for its prompt response. He affirmed that the Anam farmers are peace-loving people who have farmed in the state for over 20 years, and he pledged that they would continue to be law-abiding in their host communities.
