Several persons have been reportedly killed following fresh attacks on communities in Karim-Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State by suspected armed militia.
Residents disclosed that the violence began three days ago in Didango village, where gunmen ambushed a group of youths returning home after watching an English Premier League match at a viewing centre, killing two young men.
Sources further revealed that the attacks later spread to Gaita, Loba, and Lewatha villages in what appeared to be coordinated assaults, forcing many residents to flee into nearby bushes for safety.
A resident of Mayo-Gauro village, located a few kilometres from Didango, Dauda Bulus, told Daily Trust that the attacks were allegedly carried out by armed militia from a neighbouring community.
He added that the affected communities had experienced repeated attacks over the years.
Another resident of Didango, who spoke on condition of anonymity for security reasons, said the attackers also ambushed farmers returning from their farms, leaving several people injured.
According to him, the assailants later launched further attacks on other communities, resulting in additional casualties.
It was gathered that the attackers attempted another assault on Gurum village near the Kodai area on Tuesday night but were resisted by local vigilante groups and community members who have since intensified security patrols.
Another resident, Abubakar Adamu, expressed concern that the recurring attacks were threatening peace and stability in the area. He noted that despite several peace meetings and dialogue efforts among the affected communities, the violence had persisted.
“The attacks often occur during farming and harvest seasons, disrupting agricultural activities, which remain the main source of livelihood for many people in the area,” he said.
Confirming the incident, the Chairperson of Karim-Lamido Local Government Council, Virginia Baba Bambur, stated that calm had returned to the affected communities. She added that the council was working with relevant stakeholders and security agencies to restore lasting peace.
“We are working round the clock to ensure that Karim-Lamido remains peaceful,” she said.
Meanwhile, the spokesperson of the Taraba State Police Command, ASP Victor Mshelizah, said he could not immediately obtain a situation report from the Divisional Police Officer in Karim-Lamido due to communication challenges, adding that further updates would be provided.
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