10 die in Edo communal clash, soldiers occupy community

The Nigerian Army on Wednesday confirmed the loss of several lives and property in a communal clash in Ukhuorumi, Oredo Local Government Area of Edo State.

The Public Relations Officer, 4 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Capt. Roslyn Managbe, confirmed the incident to the News Agency of Nigeria in Benin.

While the Army spokesperson did not disclose the number of casualties, a resident of the area claimed that no fewer than 10 persons were killed.

"We have yet to make any arrest; we arrived at the location after the damage had been done. We are on the ground to forestall any further crisis and to bring peace back to the community," she said

Eyewitnesses, who spoke to NAN on the condition of anonymity, said the clash was between members of Ukhorumi Community Development Association, loyal to two rival leaders of the association.

"As we speak, the community is deserted by the people for fear of possible reprisal as many cars and buildings were burnt by the combatants yesterday," one of the eyewitnesses told NAN.

They said trouble started when some CDA members, who were loyal to the association's vice chairman, allegedly tried to wrest power from the incumbent chairman.

"The reaction that followed was spontaneous, as gunshots boomed in the community. Several cars and houses, belonging to members of the two opposing factions, were torched in the ensuing fight and not less than 10 persons reportedly died in the fracas," another eyewitness told NAN