A longstanding land dispute between two families in Kopkopshe village, Loham Ward of Tunkus, Mikang Local Government Area, turned violent over the weekend, resulting in the death of one man and leaving several others injured.
The incident, which marks a tragic escalation of a conflict said to have lingered for over five years, has sparked concerns among local authorities and residents alike.
Chairman of Mikang Local Government Council, Dr. Benard Soepding Alkali, who visited the community to assess the damage, condemned the violence as “unnecessary and unacceptable,” describing it as a setback to ongoing peacebuilding efforts in the area.
“It is unfortunate that while the government is working tirelessly to protect our lands from external threats and encroachment, we are fighting and killing each other over the same land,” Alkali said. “When brothers fight over inheritance, it creates an opening for strangers to take over. This must stop.”
He further disclosed that Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang had been briefed on the matter and had mandated immediate intervention to prevent further hostilities. Alkali also pledged to engage the disputing families in peace talks, while working towards a long-term resolution.
The son of the deceased, Mr. Felix Bagen, gave a moving account of the attack, stating that his father was killed despite a pending court case over the land in question. He appealed to the government to take temporary possession of the land until the legal dispute is resolved.
“We’ve lived in fear for years over this land. Now my father is dead. I beg the authorities to step in and bring justice,” Bagen said.
Community leader Mr. Saty Woldut thanked the chairman for his swift response and assured him of the community’s commitment to peace. Similarly, Long Lalin, the Leader of the Mikang Legislative Council and councillor representing Luham Ward, urged local leaders to sensitize youths and discourage any form of reprisal or violence.
The Plateau State Government has yet to issue a formal statement, but local authorities have confirmed that security measures are being reinforced in the area to forestall further violence.
