Aso A, a community near Jumai Estate in Mararaba—on the border between Abuja and Nasarawa State—was reportedly attacked by suspected herdsmen on Wednesday morning, leaving multiple residents dead and many others injured.
According to Daily Post, at least six people have died so far, although the exact number of casualties remains unconfirmed. Sources say the violence erupted following an earlier clash between a farmer and a herder that reportedly led to the death of the herder. The farmer, whose identity is yet to be confirmed, is said to have fled the area shortly after the incident.
In apparent retaliation, suspected herdsmen stormed the farmer’s residence, attacking residents indiscriminately and setting several houses on fire. Attempts by community members to resist the attackers reportedly escalated the violence, causing further property destruction and loss of life. A video obtained by Daily Post shows homes engulfed in flames, while one victim’s body was transported in a wheelbarrow to a nearby hospital.
A resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity, stated that most of the community has been deserted, with residents fleeing to neighbouring areas in Abuja and other safer locations. A motorcyclist transporting a police officer to the scene was reportedly ambushed and killed by the attackers.
Security forces, including a combined team of police and military personnel, have been deployed to the area to restore order. However, tension remains high in Mararaba amid reports that additional armed herdsmen may be mobilising from Keffi for possible reprisals. Efforts to obtain comments from the Aso A Police Division were unsuccessful, as the Divisional Police Officer declined to respond.