Tension has gripped the Imon community in Adudu Chiefdom, Obi Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, following the brutal killing of a 35-year-old Tiv woman, Kpadoo Lazarus-Uwua, allegedly by a minor herder during a disagreement over fishing activities.
According to The PUNCH, eyewitness accounts said Lazarus-Uwua was attacked while fishing in a local stream. The suspect reportedly accused her of polluting the water before inflicting fatal machete wounds. The mother of three died on the spot from the injuries sustained.
Speaking on the incident, a relative of the deceased, Mathew Aondo, called for justice, emphasizing that the Tiv community has consistently promoted peace.
“Kpadoo was a vibrant mother with dreams for her children. She was unjustly cut down over a mere allegation. We urge the government to investigate and ensure justice is served. All we want is to farm and live in peace,” Aondo said.
The incident has sparked widespread condemnation, with residents decrying the recurring violence allegedly perpetrated by some herders in the region. Youth leader, Samuel Ortserga, expressed frustration over the continued attacks.
“We’re tired of burying our loved ones. Our wives, fathers, brothers, and sisters are being killed unjustly. This must stop,” Ortserga stated.
Despite the rising tension, community members praised local youth and traditional authorities for working together to ensure the suspect was arrested and handed over to the police for investigation. The case is currently being handled by the Criminal Investigation Department in Lafia.
The Fulani Youth leader in Adudu, Saleh Anaruwa, condemned the act, describing it as “senseless and heartbreaking.” He appreciated the restraint shown by the community and assured that the matter would be thoroughly investigated.
“We mourn with the family. No one should lose their life in such a manner,” Anaruwa said.
Similarly, the District Head of Adudu Chiefdom, Alhaji Abdullahi Tanko, appealed for calm while warning herders against any actions that could spark wider conflict.
“We must preserve peace in our Chiefdom. Violence only brings more pain,” he said.
The President of the Tiv Youth Organisation in Nasarawa, Isaiah Audu, commended both Tiv and Fulani youth for cooperating with security agencies and urged all groups to remain peaceful.
The remains of Kpadoo Lazarus-Uwua have been deposited in a morgue pending burial arrangements, as the community awaits the outcome of the police investigation.
