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Nigeria land fights get bloody
30/01/2004 14:16 - (SA)
Lagos - A traditional ruler and many people were feared killed following violent clashes over land rights in Nigeria's oil-rich Rivers State, the police said on Friday.
Clashes broke out on Wednesday in Gbukuma between two rival ethnic Kalabari groups seeking the control of the town, state police spokesperson Ireju Barasua said.
"The traditional ruler of the town is rumoured to have been killed. But we are still checking if it is true," she said.
She said many people were also believed to have died in the violence, while many buildings and vehicles were torched.
Barasua said the police have sent anti-riot policemen to quell the violence.
"Our men are there to ensure peace. I am sure everywhere is now calm," she added.
The incident was the latest in the oil-rich state where ethnic and street violence has claimed dozens of lives in recent weeks.
Two weeks ago, several people were killed in the oil city of Port Harcourt in fighting between two street gangs.
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