The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government and security agencies to take urgent steps to end recurring communal violence between the Karinjo and Wurkun communities in Karim Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State following a fresh clash that left five people dead and displaced more than 100 residents.
The resolution followed a motion moved on the floor of the House on Wednesday by Rep. Mohammed Audu, who expressed concern over the worsening security and humanitarian situation in the affected communities.
Presenting the motion, Audu said violence erupted again on May 29, resulting in the death of at least five persons, injuries to several others and extensive destruction of homes, farm produce and livestock.
According to him, the renewed hostilities have further worsened the security challenges in Karim Lamido, where residents are already contending with attacks by bandits operating around border communities linking Taraba, Plateau, Bauchi and Gombe states.
He told lawmakers that more than 100 residents had been displaced from their homes, leaving many vulnerable and without access to essential services.
“Over 100 persons in various communities in Karim have been displaced and rendered homeless, places like Salakan, thus exposing them to further attacks as they are unable to easily access potable water and basic essentials required for decent living,” he said.
The lawmaker also highlighted the impact of the violence on livelihoods, noting that the affected communities are predominantly agrarian and rely heavily on farming and livestock rearing.
He said farms, crops and animals were destroyed during the clashes, leaving many families without means of sustenance.
“The victims are suffering untold hardship as being predominantly farmers, their sources of livelihood have suddenly been destroyed, with villages like Mutun Daya, Bambur Zailani, Didango, Andami and Mayo-Gauri filled up with refugees,” Audu added.
The House expressed concern that repeated outbreaks of violence between neighbouring communities continue to threaten peace and stability in parts of Taraba, particularly in areas already facing criminal activities and cross-border banditry.
Lawmakers warned that the humanitarian situation could deteriorate further if urgent intervention is not provided to displaced families struggling to access shelter, food, clean water and healthcare services.
Following deliberations, the House urged security agencies to intensify efforts to restore peace and prevent further loss of lives and property in the affected communities.
It also called on the Federal Government and relevant humanitarian organisations to provide emergency relief materials and support to victims displaced by the violence.
Members further stressed the need for dialogue, strengthened security presence and sustained peace-building initiatives to address the root causes of the recurring conflict and achieve lasting peace in the area.
The intervention comes amid growing concerns over the increasing number of communal conflicts across the country, many of which have contributed to displacement, food insecurity and humanitarian challenges in rural communities.
