The Holy Family Catholic Parish, Takum Local Government Area of Taraba State, has raised alarm over a series of renewed attacks by suspected herders on several communities in the area.
The church said the attacks have displaced hundreds of residents and led to the destruction of farmlands, heightening fears of a looming humanitarian crisis.
In a statement issued on Monday by the Parish Priest, Very Rev. Fr. George Dogo, the church described the situation as “disturbing and devastating,” urging government and security agencies to act swiftly to curb the violence.
According to Fr. Dogo, the crisis began on September 19, 2025, after an attack on security personnel in Aye Twar, Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of neighbouring Benue State, which later spread into border communities in Takum.
He said armed herders invaded farmlands and settlements, burning crops and forcing villagers to flee their homes.
Communities affected include Dogon Gawa, Tor Gbengee, Jenuwa Nyifiye, Jenuwa Haba, Jenuwa Gida, Jenuwa Ruwander, Jenuwa Nytsu, Kwari, and Ribasi, where extensive farmland destruction was reported.
In Asuku and Mbakyula villages, two people sustained critical injuries, while about 150 residents were displaced. Another 200 people reportedly fled Imbor, Mbaaga, Chakera, Hoyoo, Mbayatsav, Genda, and Ikyor after their farms were razed.
Similarly, Tir-Lijam, Akaajo, Abunde, Akase, Ikyo-Dam, and Iortev villages were deserted, displacing about 560 residents. In Ikper, Kur-Hindi, Wombo, Kwaghcia, and Angaha, another 400 residents were said to have been forced from their homes after their farmlands were set ablaze.
The attacks also extended to Muji I, Muji II, Kwariben, Nzuwaya, and Tusun Haake, where large stretches of farmland were destroyed.
In Tarhembe and Tornyi, all farms were burnt, leaving one person critically injured and hospitalised at the General Hospital, Takum. About 402 residents from the two villages were also displaced.
“Our people are suffering. Hundreds have been displaced, farmlands destroyed, and livelihoods ruined. We appeal to the government to take swift action before the situation worsens,” Fr. Dogo said.
He called on the Taraba State Government, security agencies, and humanitarian organisations to intervene urgently and provide relief materials to the victims.
