Unrest and Uncertainty in Erigabo: Clan Conflict Escalates
Trouble has been brewing in the northern Sanaag region, with tensions in Erigabo intensifying after the Warsangeli clan pointed fingers at North Western State of Somalia and rival factions for stoking the flames of conflict. The Warsangeli have accused their adversaries of exacerbating the ongoing turmoil, an issue that has gripped the area and caused significant upheaval.
After gathering for a clan conference in the quaint town of El Buh, the Warsangeli clan issued a firm statement. This gathering saw a diverse mix of elders, young folks, diaspora members, and intellectuals, all hailing from the Warsangeli community. They’ve raised their voices against the violence that has seized Erigabo since November 2024, which has tragically resulted in a significant loss of life and uprooted many from their homes.
“We can’t sit idle while our people suffer,” Sultan Said Sultan Abdisalan declared. The leader spearheaded this critical meeting of minds.
The heart of this discord lies between militias from the Warsangeli and the Habar Jeclo clans. Yet, the conflict isn’t just a tale of two clans. Forces from SSC-Khaatumo and North Western State of Somalia have also marched into the fray, accused of aligning with either side, further muddying the waters.
The grim tally, according to independent estimates, stands at over 20 lives lost amid the skirmishes, but the chaotic situation makes it hard to pin down exact figures.
Warsangeli Takes a Stand
In a bold move, the Warsangeli clan proclaimed the breach of a peace deal struck back in 1993 with the Isaaq clan, a pact that was supposed to ensure harmonious living within the region. "We feel the rug has been pulled from under us," they lamented.
To counter the rising threat, they’ve established a 35-member committee with the mission to protect Warsangeli lives and their belongings in Erigabo. “The international community and humanitarian bodies need to step up and extend a helping hand to the displaced, who are currently in dire straits,” stated Ali Yare Guray Dirir, appointed as the spokesperson for the conference.
The clan leaders are also setting their sights on a more extensive gathering slated for February 2025, reflecting their determination to chart a clearer future path.
Though North Western State of Somalia, which holds administrative control over Erigabo, has yet to officially acknowledge the Warsangeli’s declaration, President Abdirahman Abdillahi Cirro has previously emphasized dialogue as the ultimate means of quelling these clan tensions.
Calls for Peace Amidst Rising Tensions
Conversely, King Osman Buurmadow, a respected elder from the Habar Jeclo/Isaaq, echoed aspirations for peace through local media outlets. Nevertheless, he hinted that their militias stand prepared to defend if push comes to shove.
The intensifying conflict has sparked an arms race in Sanaag. Weapons trading and militia mobilization have seen a noticeable uptick, leaving many on edge about what the future might hold.
Observers voice concerns that Erigabo, once a bastion of peace, could witness renewed warfare. Meanwhile, roughly 43,000 individuals have thus far been displaced since hostilities erupted, says the United Nations. Many of these refugees have sought safety in nearby locales like El Afweyn and Laasqoray.
Others have found temporary havens in districts such as Bosaso, Las Anod, Hudun, and Burao, seeking respite from the chaos. As the situation spirals, humanitarian groups warn of an escalating crisis, with families in makeshift shelters enduring abysmal conditions.
Attempts to mediate this strife appear precarious, with clan militias seemingly gearing up for another round of conflict. The world watches and waits, hoping for calm amidst the brewing storm.
Edited by: Ali Musa
alimusa@axadletimes.com
Axadle international–Monitoring
