By Atoyebi Nike
Several people were killed over the weekend in violent clashes between farmers and herders in Taraba State.
The attacks took place in Munga and Bandawa communities. Locals said the violence followed disputes over missing cattle. Suspicions quickly turned into deadly confrontations.
Gunmen on motorcycles stormed the villages. They fired shots and set houses on fire. Witnesses said the assailants targeted homes at random.
In Bandawa, two people died after a farmer confronted herders for grazing cattle on his land.
Residents of Munga described the attack as shocking. “We never expected this,” said Alpharis Philemon. “We have always lived in peace with the Fulani.”
Philemon believes land grabbing is the real issue. “Now that the rainy season has started, they want to use our farms for grazing,” he said.
He also blamed security agencies. “Karim town is just seven minutes away, yet the military didn’t respond for over two hours,” he said.
The dead were buried in a mass grave, in line with local tradition.
Chairman of Karim Lamido LGA, Bitrus Danjos, wept openly at the burial. He called the attack “barbaric.” He urged residents to seek legal action rather than resort to violence.
Danjos said the area’s open borders with five states make it easy for attackers to move in and out. Many villagers have now fled their homes.
Taraba State Governor, Agbu Kefas, condemned the attack. In a statement, he described it as “horrendous and unacceptable.” He warned the attackers would face consequences.
The governor also promised stronger security in vulnerable communities.
As residents mourn, many are calling for urgent protection, justice, and long-term peace.
