Priests of the Catholic Diocese of Wukari have staged a protest walk to draw attention to the ongoing attacks, killings, and displacement of farmers in southern Taraba, warning that the violence is reaching alarming proportions.
The diocesan leadership reported that over 90,000 residents have been displaced, more than 80 people killed, and hundreds injured, while over 200 communities, including churches, have been destroyed.
Rev. Father James Yaropay, Vicar Pastoral of the diocese, said the attacks have left farmlands abandoned and the livelihoods of local farmers under siege.
“It has become imperative for us to carry out this solidarity walk and address the press on the persistent and heartbreaking violence occurring in Chanchanji Ward of Takum Local Government Area, as well as parts of Ussa and Donga Local Government Areas, since September 2025,” Father Yaropay said.
The diocese described the attackers as heavily armed militia who strike in the early hours, often setting homes and crops ablaze and killing indiscriminately.
The priests called for urgent security intervention, demanding the deployment of adequate personnel to the affected hinterlands.
“The government at all levels must ensure security and bring perpetrators to justice, regardless of ethnic, political, or religious affiliations,” the diocesan statement said.
The Catholic leadership also highlighted the plight of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), urging government agencies, humanitarian organisations, NGOs, philanthropists, and the broader public to provide relief.
Immediate needs include food, bedding, toiletries, medical care, and temporary shelter to prevent a full-blown humanitarian crisis.
“The situation requires swift and decisive action to avert further loss of lives and restore normalcy to these communities,” the statement added.
The protest underscores growing concerns over insecurity in southern Taraba, with the church positioning itself as both advocate and watchdog for affected residents.
