Chairman, Ijumu local government of Kogi state, Alhaji Ibrahim Haruna, has called for calm after a disturbing clash in Ilughagba community.
Over the past 24 hours, rising tension over access to the community water supply led to a heated dispute between indigenous residents of Ilughagba and truck drivers working for Samjones, a subcontractor under Mangal Cement Factory. The situation escalated, disrupting normal activities and raising security concerns.
In a statement on Tuesday, the Council Chairman confirmed he had deployed security operatives to the scene to prevent further unrest.
Chairman, according to the statement, mobilized personnel from the Military, DSS, Nigeria Police Force (NPF), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Kogi State Vigilante Service (KSVS), and local hunters to maintain order.
Addressing the affected community members and representatives of Samjones, the LG Chairman reaffirmed that the community had full rights over its natural resources.
Alhaji Haruna assured residents that his administration would not tolerate any form of mistreatment or undue pressure from external parties.
He was joined at the scene by his Mopamuro Local Government counterpart, Hon. Ademola Bello Destiny, whose contribution was invaluable to restoring calm to the situation and working towards a lasting solution to the underlying issues.
To find a lasting resolution, the Chairman convened a management meeting involving representatives from Mangal Cement Factory, Samjones, the local community, and security agencies.
After thorough deliberation, meeting called for immediate restoration of the community’s borehole water supply, which was damaged during the conflict.
The meeting also restricted water access to local residents only, prohibiting truck drivers and subcontracted company staff from using the supply.
They directed suspension of Samjones’ operations in the area until a permanent resolution is reached.
“All properties and goods lost or damaged by residents during the dispute will be replaced after due scrutiny. Affected individuals are advised to submit an honest and detailed list of stolen or damaged items for verification,” the statement added.
Alhaji Haruna commended the people of Ijumu for their peaceful nature, highlighting that their welcoming attitude had contributed to the region’s industrial development, including the establishment of the cement factory in Ilughagba.
He urged all parties to maintain peace while efforts continue toward a sustainable solution.
