Eid Tragedy in Argungu: Gov. Idris Calls for Peace After Three Killed in Kebbi Community.
By Bala Salihu Dawakin Kudu, Northern Bureau Chief, Democracy Newsline
March 25, 2026.
A tragic turn of events marred what should have been a joyous Eid-el-Fitr celebration in Alwasa Community, Argungu, as a violent clash claimed the lives of three persons, sending shockwaves across Kebbi State.
The incident, which occurred on Monday evening, has drawn a strong appeal for calm from Governor Nasir Idris, who visited the grieving community on Tuesday to commiserate with residents and families of the victims.
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According to the Chairman of Argungu Local Government Area, Sani Aliyu-Gulma, the crisis began during festive celebrations when two Fulani youths rode into the town on a motorcycle, performing dangerous stunts locally known as “boris.”
What initially appeared as harmless excitement quickly escalated when some residents objected to the display, citing safety concerns. In the heated exchange that followed, one of the youths allegedly pulled out a knife and stabbed an unsuspecting passer-by who was not involved in the altercation.
“The perpetrator fled immediately after the attack,” Aliyu-Gulma recounted. “Although his accomplice was apprehended, we intervened alongside the Divisional Police Officer and moved him to safety in Argungu.”
Despite efforts to save the victim, he later succumbed to his injuries—an outcome that ignited anger among local youths.
The victim’s death triggered a reprisal attack, as enraged youths reportedly targeted Fulani settlements in the area. In the ensuing violence, two Fulani youths were killed.
Aliyu-Gulma described the development as unprecedented, noting that Alwasa had long been known for peaceful coexistence, particularly during festive periods when visitors from different communities gather.
“This is a painful departure from our tradition of harmony,” he said.
The District Head of Alwasa, Sama’ila Muhammad-Mera, also condemned the violence, calling it “reprehensible and alien to our culture.”
Governor Idris Intervenes
During his visit, Governor Idris expressed deep sorrow over the incident, emphasizing that such acts of violence would not be tolerated under his administration.
“Alwasa is widely known as a peaceful and hospitable community. This development is both unfortunate and unacceptable,” he said.
The governor stressed the importance of lawful conduct, urging residents to avoid taking justice into their own hands.
“Anyone with grievances must seek redress through legal channels. Security agencies must be allowed to perform their duties,” he added.
He assured residents that those responsible for the killings—on both sides—would be apprehended and prosecuted to serve as a deterrent against future violence.
In a remarkable show of restraint, the Fulani community pledged to maintain peace despite their losses. Speaking on behalf of his people, Ardo Inuwa revealed that one of the victims was his nephew.
“We accept this as an act of destiny,” he said. “There will be no reprisal. We remain committed to peaceful coexistence with our neighbours.”
Governor Idris commended this stance, urging all parties to embrace dialogue and unity in the face of tragedy.
As part of immediate relief efforts, the governor announced a donation of N2 million to each of the three bereaved families.
Observers say the swift intervention by the state government and the commitment to peace by community leaders may help prevent further escalation. However, the incident has also reignited conversations around youth behavior during festivities, community policing, and the need for sustained inter-ethnic dialogue.
For the people of Alwasa, the events of Eid 2026 will not soon be forgotten. What began as a celebration of faith and unity ended in grief and reflection.
Yet, amid the sorrow, there are signs of resilience—a shared determination to restore peace and rebuild trust.
As Kebbi State grapples with the aftermath, one message rings clear from leaders and residents alike: only through patience, justice, and mutual respect can lasting peace be secured.
(DEMOCRACY NEWSLINE NEWSPAPER, MARCH 25TH 2026)
