N20m relief fund: Stakeholders demand probe as Rafi crisis takes new twist

The distribution of a ₦20 million relief fund for victims of the Rafi communal crisis has sparked fresh controversy amid allegations of violence, police detention of an injured victim and growing calls for a probe.

The relief fund, approved by the Niger State Government for Internally Displaced Persons, IDPs, affected by the lingering conflict between the Fulani and Kamuku communities, was shared equally, with ₦10 million allocated to each group.

However, before the distribution could be concluded, a young Kamuku man was allegedly attacked by suspected Fulani assailants, leaving him with deep machete cuts.

The victim reportedly went to the police to lodge a complaint but was allegedly detained and later transferred to the Niger State Police Command Headquarters in Minna, where he remains in custody while receiving treatment.

Sources identified Salihu Appa, a former Secretary of Rafi Local Government Council, as the representative who received the ₦10 million allocated to the Kamuku community, while Alhaji Itatuwa reportedly received the allocation for the Fulani community.

The incident has sparked fresh concerns among residents and stakeholders, who insist that the crisis requires more than palliative measures.

One stakeholder said those benefiting from the conflict were frustrating peace efforts and urged the Niger State Government to identify and prosecute those responsible for fueling the violence.

Residents have also called on the Commissioner of Police to ensure a transparent investigation into both the attack and the circumstances surrounding the victim’s detention.

The communal clashes in parts of Rafi Local Government Area have displaced hundreds of residents and claimed several lives, prompting repeated calls for stronger security measures and lasting peace.