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Nigeria loses 8,343 persons to farmers-herders conflict, says Report

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…As Benue, Plateau top states with most attacks

Nigeria has lost no fewer than 8, 343 persons to farmers-herders conflict since 2005, according to findings by the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project, ACLED.

ACLED which commenced data collection and analyses in Nigeria in 1997 noted that the casualties were a result of 1,350 attacks spread across 16 states of the federation.

This was disclosed at a zoom workshop on Monday, organised by Chikezie Omeje, a data and science journalist as part of his Davis Projects for Peace.

According to ACLED report, Benue topped the states with most violent attacks, closely followed by Plateau, Kaduna, Taraba and Nasarawa in that order. The report which covered 2005 to date, put the number of killings in Benue at 2, 539 from 303 attacks, while Plateau, Kaduna, Taraba and Nasarawa lost 2,138, 1,188, 755, 521 lives in 279, 160, 111 and 93 attacks respectively.

Others states captured in the report include Adamawa, Katsina, Zamfara, Niger, Kogi and Ogun states.

Addressing participants, Omeje tasked journalists, particularly those reporting the conflict beat to be armed with data knowledge, adding that same would facilitate better understanding of issues, causes and possible solutions.

“Violence can be sustainably prevented or reduced if there is an improved awareness of the magnitude and negative impact of the conflict. Violence can reduce if solutions being taken by communities to maintain peace are reported. Peace building efforts can be enhanced if the stakeholders have better understanding of the conflict dynamics,” he stressed.

Still on data-driven conflict reporting, Omeje noted that “without robust and granular data, improved understanding of farmer-herder conflict dynamics is difficult,” even as he pointed out that “if data on the patterns and trends of the conflict risk factors are linked with good storytelling, a positive impact can be made for peace and security at the communities that have faced these persistent and vicious cycle. Without data, it becomes difficult to analyze the conflict, in terms of trends and other factors.”

Although, various communities in Benue have been epicentres of violent conflicts in recent years, the report commended the Otukpo model which has seen farmers co-exist peacefully with herders with little or no report of attacks.

This, Omeje attributed to an agreement reached by both parties to go about their businesses without molestation. In Otukpo, “herdsmen reach agreements with landowners who allocated plots of land for cattle to feed on; they have livestock guards who lead the herdsmen as they go to feed their cattle. They hold meetings every month where they discuss issues affecting them. The herdsmen serve as security in their settlement and other parts of Otukpo,” the report stated.

Culled from the Vanguard News Nigeria

Houston

Houston and Owerri Community Mourn the Passing of Beloved Icon, Lawrence Mike Obinna Anozie

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Houston was thrown into mourning on September 19, 2025, following the sudden passing of businessman and community advocate Lawrence Mike Obinna Anozie, who peacefully joined his ancestors. Immediate family member in Houston, Nick Anozie, confirmed his untimely death and expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love and condolences from both the Houston and Owerri communities.

Lawrence was born to Chief Alexander and Lolo Ether Anozie of Owerri in Imo State, Nigeria, and will be dearly remembered by family members, friends, and the entire Houston community.

An accomplished accountant, the late Lawrence incorporated and successfully managed three major companies: Universal Insurance Company, LLC, Universal Mortgage LLC, and Universal Financial Services. Through these enterprises, he not only built a thriving business career but also created opportunities for countless individuals to achieve financial stability. His contributions to entrepreneurship and community development will remain a lasting legacy.

According to the family, arrangements for his final funeral rites are in progress and will be announced in due course.

Lawrence will forever be remembered as a loving and compassionate man who dedicated much of his life to uplifting others. He helped countless young Nigerians and African Americans overcome economic challenges by providing mentorship, financial guidance, and career opportunities. His generosity touched the lives of many who otherwise might not have found their footing. A devout Catholic, he was unwavering in his faith and never missed Mass, drawing strength and inspiration from his church community. To those who knew him, Lawrence was not only a successful businessman but also a pillar of kindness, humility, and faith whose legacy of service and compassion will continue to inspire generations.

For more information, please contact Nick Anozie – 832-891-2213

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Houston Gets a Taste of West Africa at Chef Kavachi’s ‘Art of Fufu’ Show, August 8

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When it comes to international culinary gems and cultures across the United States, the city of Houston is counted among one of the best places to experience an authentic taste of every corner of the world.

 On the evening of Friday, August 8th, Houstonians will have a chance to engage all of their senses into the world of real West African flavors at Grubido’s ‘Art of Fufu’ Food & Art Show, a free culinary and art experience taking place at Flatland Gallery (1709 Westheimer Rd.) in Montrose.

  Curated by Grubido founder and Culinary Cultural Curator Kavachi Ukegbu, the annual celebration of west African cuisine and artistry will once again open its doors to patrons to witness the delights of creating and eating Fufu (a starchy, dough-like food that is a staple in many West and Central African countries), and its delicious and diverse pairings of soups and stews that originate from various parts of the continent, and uniquely compliment the beloved food staple as a complete meal. The event will also celebrate the observance of National Fufu Day  in the United States on August 11th.

  From the process of how different types of fufu are grown and manufactured, to the careful guidance on properly preparing the fufu to be eaten, the ‘Art of Fufu’ Food & Art showcase will give patrons a full circle perspective and appreciation for the food staple that has gained global popularity on social media and in many countries around the world.

  Attendees will be treated to fufu and soup samples, live Afrobeats music, an impressive display of fufu inspired artwork and collectables from over the years, and the opportunity to purchase Grubido food products, t-shirts, and the official The Art of Fufu cookbook. Originally published and released by Chef Kavach in 2021, “The Art of Fufu is a fascinating and informative guide to fufu, one of the most delicious and beloved staple foods of West Africans.” All cookbook purchases at the event will be signed by Chef Kavachi.

Entry for this event is free to all guests, but RSVP is strictly required in advance. To RSVP for the upcoming Art of Fufu Food & Art show, please visit the official website online at www.TheArtofFufu.com, or contact Grubido at (832) 818-6847.

The Art of Fufu Cookbook is a culinary treasure that explores the flavors, techniques, and cultural significance of fufu. It is a testament to the artistry of West African cuisine and serves as a guide for those seeking to immerse themselves in this beloved dish.

For more information, please visit www.theartoffufu.com & www.artoffufu.com

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Houston

Video: Omambala Cultural Association in Houston Celebrates Motherhood with Joyous Igbo-Inspired Mother’s Day Event

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