A deadly communal clash between Fulani and Gwari communities in Gurfata village, Gwagwalada Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has left at least one person dead and 31 houses destroyed. The violent outbreak occurred on Tuesday, July 29, 2025.
According to reports from security analyst Zagazola Makama, the confrontation was triggered by a disagreement between a Fulani herder, Shaibu Adamu, and a Gwari farmer, Sa’adu. The conflict reportedly began when Adamu tried to pass through Sa’adu’s farmland on foot. The farmer objected, insisting the herder take another route, sparking an argument that turned physical.
Though the initial altercation only resulted in minor injuries, tensions quickly escalated. In retaliation, Adamu’s brother, identified as Adamu Ibrahim, allegedly attacked a Gwari resident, Dahiru Yakubu, with a machete.
Yakubu was rushed to the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital but later succumbed to his injuries.
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News of his death enraged Gwari youths, who launched a reprisal attack on the Fulani community. At least 31 houses were razed during the violence, and three individuals sustained injuries. Witnesses described the scene as chaotic, with families fleeing and properties set ablaze in minutes.
Troops from the Nigerian Army and other joint security forces were swiftly deployed to the area to restore calm. As of Wednesday, peace had been partially restored, but local leaders say the situation remains volatile.
Authorities have since appealed to both sides for restraint. Efforts are currently underway to mediate between the Fulani and Gwari communities and prevent a recurrence of the violence.
The FCT has witnessed several similar conflicts in recent years, often ignited by land disputes or clashes between herders and farmers. The latest incident adds to growing concern over ethnic and communal violence in Nigeria’s capital region.
Community elders and security officials are working on establishing permanent dialogue frameworks to avoid future bloodshed.
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