Catholic priests lead solidarity walk over mass killings in Taraba
Catholic Leaders Hold Protest Against Killings in Taraba State
JALINGO, Taraba State — Catholic priests and religious leaders, alongside parishioners from the dioceses of Wukari and Jalingo, organized a peaceful protest in Jalingo on Thursday to condemn ongoing violence against farmers in Taraba State.
The demonstration, termed a “solidarity walk,” aimed to highlight the alarming incidents in Chanchanji Ward of Takum, where violent attacks have surged. Protesters carried placards expressing their frustration over what they see as the indifference of local authorities to the escalating crisis.
According to church officials, more than 80 individuals have lost their lives in the last 90 days due to the violence, with thousands displaced and suffering property damage. Very Rev. Fr. James Yaro, Vicar Pastoral of the Catholic Diocese of Wukari, reported significant destruction, including over 200 churches and community structures, asserting that these attacks violate the constitutional right to freedom of religion.
Fr. Yaro indicated that the crisis, which he claims began in September 2025, has displaced over 90,000 Catholics in the region. He accused suspected Fulani militia of perpetrating the violence, often attacking at night and setting fire to homes and farms. He noted that farmers have been prevented from accessing their crops, and there have been reports of women being assaulted while attempting to reach farmlands.
The priest described the situation as an “existential threat,” asserting that the violence not only endangers lives but also stifles the growth of Christianity and impedes infrastructure development in southern Taraba.
While acknowledging the response of the Taraba State Government and security agencies in other regions, Fr. Yaro called for increased efforts in Chanchanji Ward and its surrounding areas in Takum, Ussa, and Donga. He urged for the urgent deployment of security personnel to improve safety in affected communities and insisted on the prosecution of those responsible for the violence, regardless of their background.
Additionally, Fr. Yaro appealed for immediate humanitarian assistance for internally displaced persons, requesting food, bedding, toiletries, medical care, and temporary shelter to avert a larger humanitarian crisis. He urged local leaders and security agencies to engage in dialogue aimed at fostering lasting peace in the region.
He warned that if the state fails to provide adequate security to residents, the church may be compelled to seek assistance from the international community. Despite the ongoing turmoil, the clergy committed to supporting local government and security efforts to restore peace in the area.
