Suspected Herders Attack Nasarawa Community, Four Killed and Dozens Injured

Deadly Attack in Akunza-Ashigye

The Akunza-Ashigye community, located near Assakio in the Lafia East Development Area of Lafia Local Government Area, Nasarawa State, Nigeria, was subjected to a violent assault by suspected armed herders on the night of December 30, 2025. The attack tragically claimed the lives of four persons and left 45 others injured. Eyewitnesses described the incident as sudden and violent.

Details of the Incident and Casualties

According to reports, the assailants, identified as suspected armed herders or Fulani ethnic militia, launched the attack under the cover of darkness. While initial accounts from residents and eyewitnesses, including Mr. Jonathan Adamu, a resident of Akunza-Ashigye, indicated four fatalities and over 45 injuries, the Nasarawa State Police Command later confirmed three deaths. Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) for Nasarawa State Command, Rahman Nansel, stated, 'I can confirm that two persons died at the scene, while another later died at the hospital.' He also noted that nine injured persons were rescued and transported to hospitals for treatment.

Alleged Motive and Background

The attack is widely believed to be a reprisal. Sources suggest it followed the killing of a Fulani herder on December 28, 2025. This herder was reportedly ambushed and killed near Akunza-Ashigye while returning from a cattle market in Lafia with another herder. The surviving herder allegedly identified one of the attackers by their dreadlocks, leading to the conclusion that the assailants were from Akunza-Ashigye community, which may have triggered the retaliatory violence. The incident is also linked to a broader, unresolved conflict between Fulani herders and the community, which has seen casualties on both sides in previous years, including 2024.

Official Response and Community Reaction

Following the attack, the Nasarawa State Police Command, under the directive of Commissioner of Police Shetima Mohammed, deployed a significant number of security personnel and tactical teams to the affected area. Investigations into the incident have commenced. The PPRO, Rahman Nansel, assured residents that efforts are underway to bring those responsible to justice. The Migili Youth Association has publicly condemned the attack, highlighting it as a grave threat to peace in the Ashige Chiefdom of Lafia Local Government Area and expressing deep concern over recurring insecurity in their communities.