1 dead, 31 houses razed as Fulani-Gwari clash rocks FCT community

A deadly communal clash between Fulani and Gwari residents in Gurfata village, Gwagwalada Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has left one person dead and at least 31 houses destroyed.

According to eyewitnesses, the violence broke out on Tuesday morning following a heated altercation between a Fulani man, Shaibu Adamu, and a Gwari farmer, Sa’adu. The conflict reportedly began around 10:30 a.m., when Adamu attempted to cross Sa’adu’s farmland on foot, even though he had no cattle with him.

Tensions quickly escalated, drawing in members of both ethnic groups and leading to widespread destruction. Residents say several properties, including homes and farmland, were set ablaze during the confrontation.

The farmer objected, insisting he use another route. An argument ensued, escalating into a physical altercation that left both men with minor injuries.

The incident quickly reignited ethnic tensions in the village, with both communities mobilising in solidarity with the parties involved.

The situation worsened when Adamu Ibrahim, elder brother to Shaibu, allegedly attacked a Gwari resident, Dahiru Yakubu, with a machete.

Yakubu was rushed to the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, where he later died from his injuries.

The news of his death sparked a reprisal attack by enraged Gwari youths, who descended on the Fulani settlement in Gurfata, burning down 31 houses and injuring at least three individuals.

The troops of the Nigerian Army as well as other joint Security personnel were later deployed to the area to halt the violence and restore calm.

Authorities have appealed for peace and urged both communities to exercise restraint. Meanwhile, efforts are ongoing to mediate between the groups and prevent further escalation.

As of Wednesday, normalcy had returned to the village, though tensions remain high.