Residents of Powishi village in Gombe State’s Billiri Local Government Area have disputed the police report that only one person, Mallam Yusuf Akwara, was killed in the recent invasion by suspected herders.
Key Points:
1. Residents claim at least five people were killed, including a retired army officer.
2. Over 250 houses were burnt, and about 200 people injured.
3. Police report only one death and an unknown number of animals rustled.
4. Community members allege herders attacked after farmers refused to leave their guinea corn farm.
Resident Accounts:
1. Sunday Bala: “They burnt the whole village; they killed almost five people.”
2. Salome Bako: “The first time they came was during the daytime, asking farmers to leave, but they insisted on harvesting their produce.”
3. Danladi Joshua: “A retired army officer who settled in the village to farm was killed.”
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Police Response:
1. Gombe State Police Command condemned the attack and killing.
2. CP Hayatu Usman visited the scene with security personnel.
3. Police deployed detectives and men to track and bring perpetrators to book.
Discrepancy:
1. Residents and police disagree on the number of casualties and extent of destruction.
2. Community members demand accurate reporting and justice for victims.
Source: Punch
