Bayelsa communal clash claims 2 lives, properties destroyed

At least two individuals have lost their lives, and homes and shops were looted and destroyed during a clash between the Opolo and Okutukutu communities in the Yenagoa Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.

The conflict, which erupted on Monday, February 19, was reportedly a reprisal attack by Okutukutu indigenes in response to a previous assault by Opolo residents over a longstanding dispute regarding the boundaries of their communal land.

According to sources, it escalated when some Opolo indigenes ventured into the disputed territory, prompting a violent reaction from their Okutukutu neighbors who claimed the incursion breached their boundaries.

While the disputed land had been the subject of a court battle, with the Supreme Court recently ruling in favor of Opolo, the recent altercation reignited hostilities between the two communities.

The Youth president of Okutukutu asserted that it was Opolo youths who instigated the violence, leading to the destruction of property belonging to mostly non-residents, before retaliation ensued.

Though the exact casualty figures remain unconfirmed, he appealed for peace among the youth of both communities and urged residents, including non-indigenes, to prioritize peace for the collective development of the area.

Confirming the crisis, Bayelsa State Police Spokesman ASP Musa Muhammed stated that tactical teams have been deployed to restore peace.

Meanwhile, the Bayelsa State government has acknowledged the land dispute and the tragic loss of lives resulting from the violent clash.

Deputy Governor Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, in a statement, condemned the attack and instructed relevant security agencies to apprehend the culprits for prosecution.

He emphasized the government’s stance against resorting to violence over territorial disputes, especially when legal processes are underway.

Ewhrudjakpo assured that the government is actively seeking to resolve the issue, including convening an emergency meeting with community leaders.

Expressing condolences to the affected families, he pledged government support in ensuring justice is served.