More than 30 people have been killed and dozens displaced following violent attacks on Munga and Magami villages in Karim-Lamido local government area of Taraba State. The assaults, reportedly carried out by suspected armed herders in the early hours of Saturday, have sparked widespread criticism over the government's response to security challenges in the region.
The attacks, which also resulted in the destruction of homes and properties, come at a particularly sensitive time for Taraba State, which recently hosted a high-profile investment summit attended by business leaders including Aliko Dangote, Tony Elumelu, and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. The summit, aimed at positioning Taraba as an investment-friendly destination, now stands overshadowed by the escalating security situation.
Survivors and eyewitnesses have expressed disappointment over what they describe as an inadequate response from state authorities. Many specifically criticized Governor Agbu Kefas for not visiting the affected communities, drawing unfavorable comparisons to Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum's hands-on approach to security challenges.
Government Response
In a statement issued through his Special Adviser on Media and Digital Communications, Emmanuel Bello, Governor Kefas condemned the attacks as "horrendous and unacceptable" and assured that perpetrators would face justice.
"Our citizens' safety is my top priority," the governor stated. "We have activated all necessary security measures to prevent further violence and bring those responsible to book."
Kefas called on residents to cooperate with security agencies, remain vigilant, and report suspicious activities while emphasizing his administration's commitment to restoring peace and stability in the affected areas.
Police Investigation
The Taraba State Police Command has indicated that tensions were triggered after a 15-year-old boy, Isah Ishaku from Munga Doso, was allegedly attacked with a machete on his farm by an unknown assailant.
Police spokesperson James Leshen confirmed that a joint team comprising conventional police officers and the Police Mobile Force (PMF) has been deployed to the affected communities. Aggressive patrols have commenced in the region, and community leaders have been engaged to help de-escalate tensions.
Karim-Lamido has increasingly become a hotspot for violence, with the latest assault in Munga Lelau marking another deadly chapter in the area's troubled security history.
The incident raises serious questions about the effectiveness of security measures in the state and threatens to undermine recent efforts to attract investment and development to Taraba.
