Several Feared Dead as Fresh Militia Attacks Rock Taraba Communities, Villagers Flee Into Bushes

Fresh violence has erupted in Karim-Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State, with several people reportedly killed after suspected armed militia launched coordinated attacks on multiple communities.

Residents said the latest wave of attacks began in Didango village, where gunmen ambushed a group of young men returning from a viewing centre after watching an English Premier League match. At least two youths were reportedly killed during the assault.

The violence quickly spread to nearby communities including Gaita, Loba and Lewatha, forcing terrified residents to flee their homes and seek refuge in surrounding bushes.

Locals described the attacks as organised and relentless, raising fears of another prolonged cycle of communal violence in the troubled area.

A resident of Mayo-Gauro village, Dauda Bulus, alleged that the assailants were armed militia members from a neighbouring community. According to him, the affected villages have suffered repeated attacks over the years, leading to deaths, displacement and widespread destruction of property.

Another resident from Didango claimed that farmers returning from their farmlands were also ambushed by the attackers, leaving several people injured.

He said the gunmen later invaded additional communities, causing more casualties and forcing families to abandon their homes in fear.

Sources in the area further disclosed that the attackers attempted to strike Gurum village near the Kodai axis on Tuesday night. However, local vigilante groups and community members reportedly repelled the assault after intensifying patrols following earlier attacks.

Residents say the recurring violence has continued despite several peace meetings and reconciliation efforts among communities in Karim-Lamido.

Abubakar Adamu, another resident, warned that the repeated attacks pose a serious threat to peace and stability in the local government area.

“The attacks often occur during the farming and harvest seasons, disrupting agricultural activities, which remain the major source of livelihood for many people in the area,” he said.

As of the time of filing this report, security agencies had yet to release an official statement on the latest attacks, while efforts to confirm the exact number of casualties were still ongoing.

The fresh bloodshed adds to growing concerns over insecurity and communal clashes in parts of Taraba State, where residents continue to demand stronger security presence and lasting peace measures.