A fresh clash between Mambilla residents and Fulani pastoralists has resulted in significant loss of life and property in Taraba State. The incident occurred in Geroji settlements of Mbamnga ward, Sardauna Local Government Area, and displaced over 1,000 residents. According to sources, the clash began with a dispute between a Mambilla woman and a Fulani man, escalating into widespread violence. The violence spread to several communities and settlements, including Wuro Buba, Wuro Ardo Bashiru, and Wuro Wakili Idrisa.
Community leaders report that the death toll may be higher, with dozens of people still missing. Ardo Bashiru, a community leader, stated that the affected residents have lost everything, including their homes, livestock, and means of survival. With the rainy season at its peak, the displaced residents are facing a humanitarian crisis. Bashiru appealed for urgent assistance to address the crisis. The affected residents are in dire need of shelter, food, and medical care.
Hundreds of residents, including women and children, have fled to the neighboring Republic of Cameroon, seeking refuge in Nyang, Donga-Mantung Division. A source, who wished to remain anonymous, reported that an unidentified group entered the village, opened fire on residents, and set many structures ablaze, resulting in loss of life and property. The source also mentioned that the displaced residents are hoping to return home once security is restored and reconstruction begins.
The Chairman of the Sardauna LGA, Alhaji Mohammed Umar, confirmed that many residents fled, but arrangements are being made to repatriate the displaced people. Umar also revealed that security forces have been fully deployed to the affected area. He stated that the state government has mobilized additional troops and police to prevent further escalation. Umar appealed for immediate assistance from federal authorities, non-governmental organizations, and the international community to support resettlement, rehabilitation, and reintegration of the victims.
Alhaji Abubakar Saleh, Chief of Mbamnga, called for calm and unity among the warring parties. He emphasized that the affected communities have lived together for generations and urged them to work together to prevent such incidents in the future. Saleh's statement highlights the need for peaceful coexistence among the different ethnic groups in the area. The incident has also drawn attention from public affairs analysts and security experts.
A public affairs analyst, Alhaji Ahmadu Ibrahim, noted that the loss of 186 livestock, a vital source of income and food for the predominantly agrarian community, has deepened the crisis. He warned that without swift, coordinated intervention, the cycle of retaliation could reignite. Ibrahim appealed to relevant aid agencies to intervene and provide assistance to the affected residents. The analyst also emphasized the need for the government to address the root causes of the conflict.
The Taraba State Police Command and the Nigerian Army have deployed a joint security team to assess the devastation and restore order. The Commissioner of Police, CP Edwin Ogbeghagha, assured residents that the security agencies are working jointly to restore peace and prevent further attacks. The police command has also provided a police helicopter for enhanced aerial surveillance to support security operations in the affected areas. The joint security team is expected to engage with stakeholders and strengthen security operations to prevent future incidents.
Key points
- At least 7 people killed and 186 livestock killed in the clash
- Over 1,000 residents displaced and 340 homes razed
- Security agencies deployed to restore order and prevent further escalation
