DAMAKASUWA, Kaduna – A distressing incident has emerged from Damakasuwa, in the Kauru Local Government Area of Kaduna State, where a farmer, Bitrus Chawai, suffered a severe injury, losing his hand in a confrontation with a herdsman.
The altercation reportedly occurred as Chawai was preparing his land for the upcoming farming season.
Bitrus Chawai, a respected community member and former Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees, NULGE, in Kauru, was attacked on Sunday, May 5, 2024, when he found that cattle had trespassed onto his bean farm, according to his younger brother, Barnabas Chawai.
The herdsman identified as Wuzaipa Salisu, allegedly assaulted Chawai when he attempted to address the issue.
Describing the harrowing event, Barnabas stated, “My elder brother went to his farm, which is not more than 200km from our family house, and discovered that cows had entered one of his farms and eaten the beans. He approached the boy only to be attacked. Their target was to machete his head, but he used his hand to shield his head. As a result, his arm was chopped off.”
This violent incident is not an isolated case, according to Barnabas, who noted that similar attacks had occurred last year, affecting two other community members.
He expressed grave concerns about the recurring conflicts and the apparent escalation in violence.
The aftermath of the attack has left Bitrus Chawai in critical condition, with ongoing severe bleeding. “As we speak, my brother has been bleeding profusely since yesterday (Tuesday); we have been referred to another hospital in Kaduna,” Barnabas added, indicating the urgent need for medical and legal attention to the matter.
Local authorities, including the police in Damakasuwa, have been notified, and the victim’s father has personally taken the matter to the Divisional Police Station.
However, the state police spokesperson, ASP Mansir Hassan, was not available for comments at the time of reporting.
