From Noah Ocheni, Lokoja
Chieftaincy supremacy over the weekend set Acharu community in Dekina local government area on fire as two opposing groups clashed over the authorities of the two supposed title holders.
The people of Acharu community, predominantly farmers and business owners, had lived together in peace for several years until the recent upgrade of traditional rulers by the Kogi State government. Stakeholders had long clamored for a recognized graded ruler, leading to the appointment of Abdul Omale as the Ogohi Acharu.
Simultaneously, the Efumare Family, in charge of farms in the area and known as Onu-Oko, was struggling for the recognition of their title as Onu Acharu community.
Trouble began when both chiefs were upgraded to third-class status at the same time by the state government last year, creating divided loyalty among residents. The crisis escalated when one chief directed supporters to clear the community’s water pond in accordance with custom, a directive allegedly ignored by supporters of the other chief.
According to an eyewitness, opposing youths began throwing stones, which degenerated into violent destruction of life and property. Many houses were set ablaze, others destroyed, and numerous families deserted their homes for safety.
Several people sustained injuries, and one victim, identified as Imaye, was hacked to death on his farm while harvesting cashew nuts. His daughter alleged that he was attacked for supporting the Ogohi Acharu group and that armed youths looted the proceeds of his sales.
Many individuals have been arrested in connection with the Saturday disturbance. The Chairman of Dekina Local Government Council, Hon. John Urah, accompanied by the Onu Egume, HRH Chief Simon Ochimana, and police officers, visited the community for an on-the-spot assessment of the damages. The Chairman has called for calm, assuring that perpetrators of the crisis will be brought to justice.
