Seven people have been killed and six others injured following a communal clash in Edo State.

The Edo State Police Command confirmed the incident in a statement on Sunday. According to the Command’s spokesperson, CSP Moses Yamu, authorities received a distress call on February 21 regarding an ongoing conflict between the Gbelemonti and Maidoti communities in Ovia North-East Local Government Area.

Upon receiving the report, operatives from the Iguobazuwa Police Division, in collaboration with the Nigerian Army and local vigilantes, were immediately deployed to the scene. Security forces evacuated casualties to a nearby hospital, where seven individuals were pronounced dead, while six others are currently receiving treatment for their injuries.

Yamu stated that the joint operation successfully brought the situation under control, restoring normalcy to the affected communities. Meanwhile, an investigation into the cause of the clash has commenced.

Edo State Commissioner of Police, Betty Enekpen Isokpan Otimenyin, has vowed to ensure a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the violence. She described the incident as avoidable and urged the public to seek lawful avenues for resolving disputes rather than resorting to violence.

The police reassured residents that all necessary measures are being taken to prevent further escalation and maintain peace in the region.