The Holy Family Catholic Parish, Takum, has expressed deep concern over renewed attacks by suspected herders on communities in Takum Local Government Area of Taraba State, resulting in widespread destruction of farmlands and mass displacement of residents.
In a statement released in Jalingo, the Parish Priest, Very Rev. Fr. George Dogo, described the situation as “disturbing and devastating,” urging both the federal and state governments to take swift action to prevent further loss of lives and worsening humanitarian conditions.
According to the statement, 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. The violence reportedly spilled over into border communities in Takum, where armed herders invaded farmlands and settlements.
Affected communities include Dogon Gawa, Tor Gbenger, Jenuwa Nyifiye, Jenuwa Gaba, Jenuwa Gida, Jenuwa Ruwa, Jenuwa Nytsu, Kwari, and Ribasi — where farmlands were destroyed and residents forced to flee.
In Asuku and Mbakyula villages, two people were critically injured while about 150 residents were displaced. Another 200 people reportedly fled from Imbor, Mbaaga, Chakera, Hoyo, Mbayatsav, Genda, and Ikyor communities after their farms were razed.
The statement further revealed that Tor-Lijam, Akaajo, Abunde, Akase, Ikyo-Dam, and Iortev villages were completely deserted following the invasion, leaving about 560 people displaced. Similarly, Ikper, Kur-Hindi, Wombo, Kwaghcia, and Angahar villages recorded about 500 displaced residents.
The attacks also extended to Muji I, Muji II, Kwariben, Nzuwaya, and Tudun Haske, where vast farmlands were destroyed. In Tarhembe and Tornyi villages, all farms were reportedly burnt, and one person critically injured is receiving treatment at the General Hospital in Takum. About 402 residents from these two villages have also been displaced.
Fr. Dogo disclosed that many displaced persons are currently taking refuge in Mammy and High Level areas of Takum town, as well as in Dogon Gawa, Manya, Sufa, Tor Donga, and Gbise.
“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 lamented.
He called on the Taraba State Government, security agencies, and humanitarian organisations to urgently restore peace, provide relief materials, and support affected families.
When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Victor Mshelizah, said he was yet to receive an official briefing on the incident but promised to make inquiries and provide an update.
— Hobnob News
