Taraba community raises alarm over alleged planned attack by suspected herdsmen militia
Concerns Raised Over Potential Attack on Taraba Community
Jalingo, Nigeria — The Ugondo Mdema Development Association (UMDA) has expressed serious concerns regarding a possible attack on the Tor-Damisa community within the Donga Local Government Area of Taraba State. Allegations suggest that suspected Fulani militia may be planning an assault, raising fears among local residents.
During a press conference held on Sunday, UMDA Chairman Joel Iorember reported that intelligence indicates an imminent threat to the community, causing widespread panic. Thousands of individuals have reportedly fled to neighboring areas in search of safety.
Iorember noted that Tor-Damisa has experienced a series of attacks in recent months, leading to fatalities and injuries. Some victims are currently receiving medical care as a result. He accused the suspected herders of displacing internally displaced persons (IDPs) who had recently returned to the area and of damaging agricultural land, exacerbating the local humanitarian crisis.
“We have alerted security agencies, yet these attacks continue,” Iorember stated. He highlighted that Nigerian Army troops stationed in Abako, near the Taraba-Benue border, recently discovered a militia camp in Tsav-Nomchongo village. Reports indicated that arms and ammunition were confiscated at the site.
Iorember expressed concern that ongoing tensions threaten to disrupt stabilization efforts in Tor-Damisa. “Intelligence at our disposal suggests a planned attack by suspected Fulani militia, allegedly in retaliation for the reported theft of two of their cows near Tor-Damisa,” he said.
The chairman further alleged that farmers have been driven from their lands, with crops destroyed, leading to a second wave of displacement this year. He called on Governor Agbu Kefas to enhance security measures to facilitate the safe return of residents to their homes and farming activities.
“I appreciate the current deployment of security personnel in Tor-Damisa but urge the governor to take stronger actions to secure our community,” Iorember added. He praised the local security forces for their previous responses to threats but urged them to remain vigilant given the latest warnings.
According to reports, Tor-Damisa has faced increasing violence in recent months. Attacks in January and February reportedly resulted in multiple fatalities and destruction of property. Additionally, the deaths of three police officers and the local vigilante group chairman during these incidents spurred the deployment of both Nigerian Army and Mobile Police Force personnel to the area.
In response to recent violent incidents, community leaders from the Tiv and Fulani groups participated in a peace meeting facilitated by the Taraba State Government, where they agreed to a ceasefire and committed to peaceful coexistence.
As of now, there has been no official response from the Taraba State Government or local security agencies regarding UMDA’s concerns.
