It was gathered that the deadly incident occurred as rival factions from the Afor communities of Angwan Dutse and Angwan Kasa clashed over disputed land ownership.

A violent chieftaincy dispute in the Odu electoral ward of the Maraba Udege Development Area in Nasarawa Local Government Area has left a mother and her child dead and forced the displacement of many residents.

It was gathered that the deadly incident occurred as rival factions from the Afor communities of Angwan Dutse and Angwan Kasa clashed over disputed land ownership.

However, the ensuing violence did not only claim lives but also resulted in the burning of many homes.

Meanwhile, the Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule paid a visit to the affected communities on Wednesday.

“As a government, we had to decide for the peace of the land. We cannot allow things to continue the way they are,” Governor Sule remarked during his assessment of the situation.

The governor explained that initial investigations had revealed the death of a woman and her child, among other casualties, though the exact toll remains under review.

Governor Sule announced that the state government would soon appoint an administrator for the Maraba Udege Development Area.

“The administrator will assist the government in coming up with final solutions to this conflict,” he explained.

However, the decisive move comes after consultations with local leaders and a thorough review of the various reports submitted regarding the crisis.

Stating the historical context, the governor noted that Mararaba had traditionally been part of Odu but had grown significantly over time.

“Mararaba has grown more than Odu to the point that it should be independent, or should have a different status. However, we call on all stakeholders to consider Mararaba as belonging to the Afo nation, setting aside their differences,” he said.

Governor Sule also noted the urgency of restoring peace, especially as mining activities are set to gain prominence in Udege.

“With the current developments in Udege, we must ensure peace prevails for the prosperity and security of all residents,” he said, urging both factions to lay down their arms and engage in peaceful dialogue," Governor Sule added.