Violence over farmland claims two lives in Niger

Two men have been killed following fresh violence linked to a long-running land dispute between Poto and Ketso communities in Mokwa Local Government Area of Niger State.

Sources said the incident was reported to the Mokwa Divisional Police Office at about 6:45 p.m. on January 29 by a community leader, Mohammed Danjuma.

Earlier that day, youths from Ketso community allegedly attacked a farmer, Mohammed Kudu, 45, while he was working on his farm. He later died from his injuries.

Another resident, Alfa Manko, 35, who reportedly went to check on the disturbance, was also attacked and killed.

Police said the two communities have been locked in a protracted land dispute currently under review by the Etsu Nupe, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar.

The Divisional Police Officer deployed officers to the area to restore calm, and security has since been strengthened to prevent further clashes.

Authorities said investigations are ongoing and urged residents to refrain from violence and allow lawful processes to resolve the conflict.