In a distressing turn of events during the Sallah celebrations in Bauchi, a violent clash between two local security groups resulted in the death of at least four individuals, including the son of a traditional ruler, authorities reported.
The confrontation erupted on Wednesday during a traditional procession to the Government House involving the Yan Ba Beli group—an armed group known for combating banditry—and a group of hunters accompanying the District Head of Miri.
The procession was violently disrupted, leading to a fatal melee.
Eyewitnesses claim that the Yan Ba Beli group initiated the violence without provocation, assaulting horse riders with sticks. This aggression reportedly incited the hunters, who retaliated by firing their dane guns into the air. Tragically, two members of the Yan Ba Beli group were struck.
The situation escalated quickly, culminating in the tragic death of Muhammadu Ghani, the son of the District Head, who was reportedly struck by a sharp object. This incident inflicted a severe head injury that led to his untimely death.
As of this report, the local police have not officially confirmed the details of the incident. However, the gravity of the situation was underscored by a visit from State Governor Sen Bala Mohammed, who extended his condolences to the grieving family at the palace of Mal Hussaini Abubakar, the District Head of Miri, on Saturday evening.
This tragic event has cast a shadow over what should have been a festive celebration, leaving the community in mourning and raising concerns about the violence associated with local security groups.
Further updates and official statements from local authorities are awaited as the community seeks to understand and respond to this devastating event.
