Panic in Delta as two farmers killed, youths retaliate in Umunede and Mbiri

Fear and unrest gripped the Umunede and Mbiri communities in Ika North-East Local Government Area of Delta State on Wednesday after two farmers were brutally killed by suspected herders. The tragic incident, which occurred on Tuesday, triggered a violent reprisal by enraged youths, who set a herders’ settlement ablaze in Umunede.

According to local sources, the attack took place along the farm road in Idumu-Ikeze Quarters and Mbiri farm settlement road. The victims, both farm labourers, were ambushed and shot dead, escalating long-standing tensions between the agrarian communities and herders.  

A resident who spoke on condition of anonymity  described the fear and insecurity that have plagued the area. “One of the victims was on his way to check his cassava farm when he encountered the suspected herders, who have been terrorizing the area for a long time. Along the Mbiri farm settlement road, they killed two men working on a farm,” the source recounted.  

In retaliation, irate youths mobilized on Tuesday night and stormed the Hausa settlement in Umunede, setting several makeshift structures and four motorcycles ablaze. The unrest has heightened fears of further clashes, with residents expressing frustration over the persistent attacks.  
“For over two years, we have lived in fear. Farmers can no longer go to their farms without the risk of being attacked. Every week, herders strike different communities across Ika land, leaving families devastated,” the resident lamented.  

When contacted, Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, confirmed the killings but stated that investigations were still ongoing.  

“Yes, two persons were killed, but no one can say for certain who was responsible. The community claimed it was the Hausa settlers, which led to the reprisal attack. However, as we speak, calm has been restored in both communities,” Edafe said.  

Despite the police intervention, residents remain on edge, calling for urgent government action to address the growing insecurity and prevent further bloodshed. Many fear that without swift intervention, the cycle of violence may continue, threatening lives and livelihoods in the affected communities.