Troops arrest men with ammunition in Southern Kaduna

Southern Kaduna residents have continued to live in fear following the violence that has taken over the area for some days

- As the situation continues to escalate, the Nigerian Army has deployed some of its troops to quell further violence in the area

There is continued violence in parts of Southern Kaduna state as troops of 1 mechanized division of the Nigerian Army have reportedly intercepted two men carrying live ammunition.

Southern Kaduna has been in the news recently after violent attacks that have taken the lives of the some residents with properties destroyed by some people suspected to Fulani herdsmen.

Daily Trust reports that Major-General Oyebade who visited the area to speak with elders and youths, ordered the immediate deployment of troops to Ninte, a neighbouring community where the renewed attacks commenced.

Oyebade explained that the men with the ammunition were in their middle ages and were driving in a maroon-colored Volkswagen vehicle through the front of the Sarkin Kagoma’s palace when they were nabbed by the troops.

“The troops became suspicious when they tried to stop the men and they objected. The troops then approached them, only to discover there were rounds of ammunition in the vehicle.

“They have been arrested and taken to the military camp in Kafanchan,” he said.

The traditional ruler of Kagoma Chiefdom, Paul Zakka Gyon, reportedly told the army commander that the recent attacks had connection to the inability of the natives displaced from Ninte to return home.

He also appealed for the deployment of troops to restore confidence in the area and ensure that displaced residents returned home.

The report said there are allegations that herdsmen took advantage of the situation to graze their cattle in people’s farms.

The GOC said the troops were only there to maintain peace and not take sides. He also appealed to both the Fulani communities and locals not to cause a religious crisis.