Taraba lawmaker laments as herders/residents clash leaves three dead, displaces many
Clash in Taraba State Leaves Three Dead, Communities Devastated
A violent confrontation erupted in the Gwomu community of the Bikwin Ward in Karim Lamido local government area of Taraba State, resulting in the deaths of at least three individuals and the destruction of several villages.
The incident, which took place on Thursday, involved suspected herders and local residents. According to local reports, three villages were set ablaze, leading to the displacement of numerous families who sought refuge in nearby communities, including Bambuka, Dadiya, Loh, and Panya.
The affected villages—Bobbo, Weyam, and Bakau—are situated in the Gwomu Bayan Dutse area of the Karim Lamido council. Residents have expressed concerns over the lack of security presence during the violence and in the hours that followed, raising questions about the response time and protection of vulnerable populations.
The clashes have left many families homeless, with significant property damage reported throughout the affected areas.
Audu Mohammed Lauya, the representative for the Karim Lamido, Ardo-Kola, and Lau Federal constituency, publicly condemned the violence in a statement issued Saturday. He described the situation as “deeply saddening,” extending condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and to those displaced or impacted by the unrest. Lauya emphasized that no community should experience such devastation and loss.
He called for urgent action from security agencies to restore peace in the affected regions and to hold those responsible accountable. Lauya also urged immediate humanitarian assistance for the displaced families and other victims of the clash.
Additionally, the lawmaker appealed for restraint among residents of Karim Lamido, warning against retaliatory actions. He underscored the necessity of peaceful coexistence and dialogue, noting that continued violence would exacerbate the hardships facing the region.
Lauya affirmed his commitment to collaborate with state authorities, security agencies, traditional leaders, and religious groups to support initiatives aimed at restoring stability in the affected communities.