Gov. Nasir Idris of Kebbi has donated N150 million to victims of the recent clashes between pastoralists and farmers in Arewa Local Government Area (LGA) of the state.
The governor announced the donation on Sunday during a sympathy visit to displaced persons who were taking refuge at the Arewa LGA Secretariat in Kangiwa.
He noted that there was no justification for the conflict between pastoralists and farming communities in Arewa, who, he said, had lived together peacefully for over a century.
“I am here to condole with the families of those who lost their lives in this unfortunate incident. However, I must warn people against taking the law into their hands,” he said.
Idris added that a thorough investigation had been launched to uncover the causes of the crisis, revealing that arrests had already been made and investigations were ongoing.
“We believe in the judicial process, and those found guilty will face appropriate punishment to serve as a deterrent to others,” he said.
Idris urged all affected communities to embrace peace, saying there was nothing as valuable as peaceful coexistence.
“I am donating N150 million to support all victims, Fulanin Arewa, Zabarmawa and others, to help them rebuild and return to their homes.
”We will also approach the Federal Government to secure additional assistance for our people,” Idris said
The governor commended the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Sen. Atiku Bagudu, for donating N20 million to the victims and security agents for their swift intervention in restoring peace to the area.
Bagudu, who accompanied the governor on the visit, pledged to collaborate with him in securing further support from the federal government.
He noted that the state had recorded significant development in recent years under Gov. Idris, warning that crises should not be allowed to erode the gains made.
Also speaking, former Gov. Sa’idu Dakingari, who addressed the victims in Fulfulde, urged them to maintain lasting peace with their Arewa brothers.
He donated N1 million to the victims, while Sen. Yahaya Abdullahi (Kebbi North) donated N2 million.
Earlier, Chairman of the council, Alhaji Sani Tela, briefed the governor on the scale of the incident.
He said that lives were lost in Bui, while animals and property were destroyed in other villages.
