9 Lives Lost, Flames Devour Homes in Plateau Communal Clash

A simmering feud between the Montol and Taroh ethnic groups erupted into tragedy in Ponglong, Plateau State, claiming at least nine lives in a harrowing display of violence. What began as a dispute over farmland escalated into a full-blown clash, leaving behind a trail of destruction and despair.

Transition Chairman, Hon. Daniel Kungmi, confirmed the grim toll, revealing that what started as a feud between two individuals spiraled out of control, inflamed by the fury of misguided youths and criminals. Homes and livelihoods were ravaged as flames engulfed houses and barns, forcing countless residents, particularly women, into displacement and uncertainty.

Despite the swift deployment of security forces to quell the unrest, opportunistic criminals seized the chaos to plunder and pillage, adding cattle rustling to the litany of woes faced by the beleaguered community.

In the aftermath of the clash, Chairman Kungmi issued a heartfelt plea for tolerance and vigilance, urging the populace to guard against those who would exploit tragedy for their own nefarious ends.

As the dust settles on Ponglong, the scars of this violent confrontation serve as a stark reminder of the fragility of peace and the urgent need for unity in diversity.