Nigerian Army Occupies Community as Deadly Communal Clashes Spark in Edo

The Nigerian Army confirmed the loss of several lives and property in a communal clashes in Ukhuorumi, Oredo Local Government Area of Edo State.

Capt. Roslyn Managbe, the Public Relations Officer, 4 Brigade, Nigerian Army, confirmed the incident to the newsmen in Benin on October 30, 2013, Wednesday.

“We have yet to make any arrest; we arrived at the location after the damage had been done. We are on the ground to forestall any further crisis and to bring peace back to the community,” she said.

The Army spokesperson did not confirm the exact number of casualties. At the same time, a local who spoke to journalists on conditions of anonymity claimed that at least 10 people were killed.

The eyewitnesses further revealed the clashes sparked between members of Ukhorumi Community Development Association, loyal to two rival leaders of the association.

“As we speak, the community is deserted by the people for fear of possible reprisal as many cars and buildings were burnt by the combatants yesterday,” another eyewitness said.

The residents said trouble started when some CDA members, who were loyal to the association’s vice chairman, allegedly tried to wrest power from the incumbent chairman.

“The reaction that followed was spontaneous, as gunshots boomed in the community. Several cars and houses, belonging to members of the two opposing factions, were torched in the ensuing fight and not less than 10 persons reportedly died in the fracas,” the eyewitness narrated.

(NAN)