Ogun State Government last night debunked the rumour that the Sarkin Hausawa of Abeokuta, Ibrahim Hassan Hassan, is dead.
There was tension on Monday at the popular Lafenwa market in Abeokuta when some Yoruba and Hausa settlers clashed, which left many injured and shops burnt. The Sarki was injured in the clash.
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Our correspondent reports that no fewer than 15 suspects have been arrested in connection with the clash.
However, normalcy has returned to the area as traders from both sides are counting their loss.
Daily Trust learnt that there was panic around 7:30pm Wednesday around Lafenwa and Sabo areas as the rumour of the death of the Sarki circulated. Traders out of fear locked their shops.
Mahmmud Alhasan Tama, who is one of the people looking after the Sarki at the Federal Medical Center, Abeokuta where he was admitted also confirmed to Daily Trust that he is alive.
He said, “There is no loss of life; he was presumed dead but did not die. The Ogun State Government has taken the responsibility of the hospital bills of all the victims.
“The Ogun State Government led by the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Alhaji Salis Shuaib, visited the victims and assured them of the government’s support on their treatment alongside strong assurance to maintain peaceful coexistence in Ogun State,” Tama added.
Also the Special Assistant to Ogun State Governor on Inter ethnic affairs, Malam Hadi Sani reaffirmed the commitment of Governor Dapo Abiodun towards strengthening peaceful coexistence in the state.