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The Holy Family Catholic Parish, Takum local government council of Taraba State, has raised alarm over a series of renewed attacks by suspected herders on several communities in the council.
The renewed attacks, according to the Catholic parish said, have left hundreds of residents displaced and farmlands destroyed.
In a statement made available to journalists in the state on Monday by the Parish Priest, Very Rev. Fr. George Dogo, the church described the situation as “disturbing and devastating.”
He urged the government and security agencies to act swiftly to prevent further violence and avert what he called a looming humanitarian crisis.
According to the parish, the violence began on September 19, 2025, following an attack on security personnel in Aye Twar, Katsina-Ala local government council of neighbouring Benue State, which later spread into border communities in Takum.
Armed herders reportedly invaded farmlands and settlements, destroying crops and forcing villagers to flee.
Communities affected as detailed in a statement by the Fr Dogo 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 were said to have sustained critical injuries, while about 150 residents were displaced. Another 200 people reportedly fled Imbor, Mbaaga, Chakera, Hoyoo, Mbayatsav, Genda and Ikyor, and after their farms were razed.
Similarly, Tir-Lijam, Akaajo, Abunde, Akase, Ikyo-Dam and Iortev villages were reportedly deserted, displacing about 560 reaidents. In Ikper, Kur-Hindi, Wombo, Kwaghcia, and Angaha, another 400 people were said to have been forced from their homes after their farmlands were set ablaze.
The attacks, as made known by the church, also extended to Muji I and 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 these two villages were also displaced.
Fr. Dogo, who listed more villages that were recent attacked, urged the relevant authorities to urgently wade in.
“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,” he said.
He also called on the state government, security agencies, and humanitarian organizations to immediately reach out to the victims with relief materials.
Catholic Church in Taraba community raises alarm over renewed herders attack in Takum
