The Badamuda Proactive Youths, a community based organization in Karim-Lamido local government council of Taraba State, has condemned a series of violent attacks allegedly perpetrated by armed herders in several communities of the council.
The attacks which occurred recently led to wanton destruction of lives and property in Bandawa, Munga Dosso, and Ngurore-Jabu Munga communities.
In a statement issued in Jalingo by the Chairman, Suleiman Joel Munga and the Secretary, Ishaya Peter Bandawa, the group described the incidents as “brutal assaults”;; that have claimed the lives of at least 15 people and left over 20 others seriously injured.
The attacks have also resulted in the destruction of properties and farmlands valued at millions of Naira.
The youth group noted that the violence has forced hundreds of residents to flee their homes, triggering widespread displacement and exposing the victims to harsh humanitarian conditions.
They warned that the destruction of farmlands critical to the local economy could lead to food shortages and deepen the economic woes of the affected communities.
In response to the growing crisis, the group called on governor Agbu Kefas to establish a high-powered investigative committee to uncover the root causes of the violence.
They stressed that the committee should include representatives from affected communities, security agencies, civil society organizations, and other key stakeholders to ensure transparency and fairness in the investigative process.
“We urge His Excellency to visit the affected communities to assess the damage firsthand, show empathy to the victims, and reassure citizens of the government’s commitment to their safety,”;; the statement read.
The group also urged security agencies to step up efforts to arrest those responsible for the attacks and deploy additional personnel to protect vulnerable areas from further violence.
Beyond calls for justice, the Badamuda Proactive Youths appealed for the immediate distribution of relief materials including food, medical supplies, and temporary shelters—to alleviate the suffering of displaced persons.
They also advocated for government compensation and reconstruction of affected areas to facilitate recovery.
“Peace cannot thrive where justice is denied,”;; the statement concluded, underscoring the need for lasting peacebuilding and accountability to prevent future violence in Karim-Lamido and across Taraba State.
