By: Zagazola Makama
What was meant to be a joyful union turned into a scene of horror on Saturday, April 13, as a bloody communal clash erupted between youths of Gidan Haki and Basasa villages during a wedding ceremony in Kware Local Government Area of Sokoto State. The violence claimed two lives, left nine others severely injured, and led to the arrest of 15 suspects.
According to intelligence sources who spoke with Zagazola Makama, the altercation began around 9:00 a.m. when a seemingly minor disagreement between youths from the two neighbouring communities spiraled into a full-blown brawl. The wedding celebration quickly descended into chaos as armed youths exchanged blows and wielded dangerous weapons in the melee.
Despite the swift intervention of local security forces, two young men—both from Gidan Haki village—were killed in the fracas. Their identities are yet to be officially confirmed. The injured, some in critical condition, were rushed to a nearby hospital for emergency medical attention.
In the wake of the deadly clash, security operatives moved swiftly to contain the situation and prevent reprisal attacks. A senior police source revealed that 15 male suspects have been apprehended and are currently assisting with investigations.
“The Commissioner of Police has ordered the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) to take over the case to ensure a thorough and impartial investigation,” the source disclosed. “We have also deployed additional personnel and increased visibility patrols in the affected communities to prevent further escalation.”
The Sokoto State Police Command has appealed to residents to remain calm and refrain from taking the law into their hands, assuring that justice will be served and all perpetrators brought to book.
The tragic incident highlights the fragility of inter-community relations in some rural areas and raises fresh concerns over the growing trend of youth violence in Northern Nigeria.
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