A fierce clash between two rival groups over the ownership of the Donga Central Mosque in Taraba State has left one person dead and property destroyed.
The violent confrontation, which occurred on Tuesday evening, reportedly followed days of mounting tension between members of the Izala Jos sect and the Danburam family, both laying claim to the disputed mosque located in Donga town.
According to sources, the crisis erupted after intelligence reports suggested that the two factions were planning to forcefully gain access to the mosque. Acting on the report, police authorities quickly invited leaders of both groups for peace talks and warned against any action that could disrupt public order.
Security operatives, in collaboration with other agencies, were deployed to the area in a bid to forestall violence. However, despite the heavy presence of law enforcement, both sides later mobilised in large numbers, armed with dane guns, cutlasses, and stones.
The ensuing clash turned bloody as one person, identified as 20-year-old Biliya Zakari of Asibiti Ward, was killed. A temporary structure close to the mosque was also destroyed during the unrest.
Police sources confirmed that smoke grenades were used to disperse the rioters and restore calm to the area.
Authorities have since reinforced security around the mosque and other sensitive locations in Donga to prevent further escalation.
A senior police officer in the area, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said:
“The situation is now under control, but we are maintaining a strong presence to ensure peace is sustained. Additional reinforcements have been deployed.”
Community leaders have called for calm, urging both parties to embrace dialogue and allow lawful resolution of the mosque ownership dispute through proper channels.
The Donga Central Mosque, one of the oldest places of worship in the area, has been at the center of a long-running ownership tussle, which residents fear could reignite if not swiftly addressed.
About The Author
