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Taraba State Governor, Dr Agbu Kefas, has declared Karim-Lamido local government council a “Special Area of Security Concern”.
This follows the persistent violence and rising insecurity in all parts of the council.
The declaration was made on Friday in Jalingo, through Executive Order No. 1 of 2026, issued as part of the state government’s efforts to restore peace, protect lives and property, and create an enabling environment for economic and social activities.
According to an official press release, the decision was informed by recurring communal clashes, banditry-related attacks, and violent conflicts between farmers and herders across the Karim-Lamido axis.
Government and security assessments indicate that the instability poses a serious threat not only to the local government, but to the overall peace and development of Taraba State.
Karim-Lamido has witnessed prolonged security challenges in recent years, including attacks on civilians and security personnel, destruction of farmlands and property, and the displacement of residents. In 2025, renewed violence in the area resulted in several fatalities, including the deaths of soldiers deployed to restore order.
Under the special security designation, the state government is empowered to implement enhanced security measures. These include the deployment of additional security personnel to identified flashpoints and the formal registration and coordination of community vigilante groups, hunters, and local defence outfits under the supervision of the Taraba State Marshals Security Guard.
The governor has also intensified high level security meetings and consultations with key stakeholders to address underlying causes of insecurity, such as unemployment, land disputes, and intercommunal tensions.
Beyond security operations, the administration has inaugurated a Judicial Commission of Inquiry to investigate the root causes of the Karim-Lamido crisis, including allegations of instigation, destruction of property, and loss of lives. The commission is expected to make recommendations on accountability, reconciliation, and long term peace building.
In addition, committees on land use and conflict prevention have been established to address recurring land-related disputes and reduce resource-based conflicts.
Governor Kefas reiterated the government’s commitment to peace and inclusive governance, warning that acts of violence will not be tolerated. He urged residents to cooperate with security agencies, comply with any lawful security measures, and engage in community peace initiatives.
The declaration is expected to draw increased attention and resources to Karim-Lamido, combining security enforcement with legal and social interventions aimed at restoring stability and enabling displaced residents to return safely to their communities.
