A land-use disagreement in the Kparekpare community near Dambai escalated into violence when a farmer, Mr Sanusi Musah, sustained deep cuts to his fingers and palms after confronting a herdsman over grazing cattle.
According to reports, the altercation began when the herdsman allowed his cattle to graze on land Mr Musah had intended to cultivate this season. Despite initial compliance, tensions flared when Mr Musah reportedly attacked the herdsman with a stick. The herdsman defended himself using a cutlass, during which Mr Musah suffered the severe injuries.
Mr Bushari Bature, the herdsman’s father, confirmed his son initially moved the cattle away but acted in self-defense during the confrontation.
Community leaders, including Mr Isaac Kaliwa, Assemblyman for the Kparekpare Electoral Area, are advocating for mediation between the parties to prevent further conflict. The Unity Committee Chairman, Mr Adams Aziz, has pledged to cover the farmer’s medical expenses, pending a full assessment of his condition.
The incident highlights ongoing tensions between farmers and herdsmen in the Oti Region, often arising from competing claims over land and access to resources.
