The Munga Development Association (MUDA) has declared a three-day mourning period for victims of recent deadly attacks in Taraba State that claimed over 40 lives.

MUDA National President, Shamah Ezra, made the announcement during a press conference in Jalingo on Saturday, describing the attacks on Munga Lelau and Munga Dosso communities in Karim-Lamido Local Government Area as "unprovoked" and "devastating."

"The scale of destruction and the level of violence inflicted on our people is unimaginable. We have conducted mass burials for more than 40 victims, while many others remain unaccounted for," Ezra stated.

According to MUDA, the attacks began on Friday, May 23, 2025, with armed men in military camouflage riding motorcycles, destroying homes, food stores, and other valuables worth millions of naira. The association expressed concern that security forces stationed just 20 minutes away in Karim town failed to intervene during the violence.

Disputed Narrative

The association strongly refuted claims that the violence was a reprisal following an initial assault by Munga Lelau youths on Fulani settlements. Instead, MUDA traced the origins of the conflict to Bandawa, where a Fulani herder allegedly killed a farmer, triggering subsequent attacks by armed militias that resulted in the deaths of seven Munga-Dosso residents and two from Munga-Lelau in Ngurore Jabu.

MUDA warned that the deteriorating security situation threatens not only local residents but also the region's agricultural economy, particularly the Fadama dry season farming activities that attract farmers from across northern Nigeria.

Call for Government Action

The association called on both state and federal authorities to urgently address the crisis, warning that perceived inaction could embolden further violence. They urged that recommendations from any forthcoming peace and reconciliation reports should be implemented to ensure lasting peace.

"The principle of 'live and let live' must be upheld. Any intention by herders to displace indigenous communities and seize their lands must be rejected by all peace-loving Nigerians," Ezra emphasized.

While commending Taraba State Governor Dr. Agbu Kefas for his swift response, MUDA urged him to take additional legitimate measures to ensure justice for the affected communities.