The peaceful community of Sallama Lagagso in Gashaka Local Government Area (LGA) of Taraba State was allegedly attacked on March 26 by operatives of African Nature Investors (ANI), a non-governmental organization (NGO) reportedly led by a South African national, alongside some park rangers.
Eyewitnesses claim that several houses, food stores, and farmlands were set ablaze, leaving many residents homeless and in distress. Reports also indicate that multiple individuals were severely beaten, while an unknown number of residents were allegedly arrested.
The incident has heightened tension in the area, with some attributing it to ongoing intimidation efforts against indigenous people in Gashaka LGA.
The development has raised concerns over potential human rights violations, prompting calls for an independent investigation. Stakeholders in Gashaka LGA, human rights advocates, the Taraba State Government, the Federal Government, and other relevant authorities have been urged to take immediate action.
Authorities are yet to issue an official statement on the incident.
