SUNTV Global Channel Report
Catholic priests in Taraba State have staged a dramatic protest, raising alarm over what they described as a deepening humanitarian catastrophe in the southern part of the state, where relentless attacks have left thousands dead, displaced, and homeless.
The demonstration, led by clergy from the Catholic Diocese of Wukari, highlighted the scale of devastation across affected communities. According to church leaders, more than 90,000 residents have been forced to flee their homes, while over 200 churches and entire communities have been destroyed in sustained violence that began escalating in late 2025.
Speaking after the solidarity march, the diocese’s Vicar Pastoral, Very Rev. Fr. James Yaropay, described the situation as heartbreaking and urgent. He said the attacks have particularly ravaged areas including Chanchanji Ward in Takum Local Government Area, as well as parts of Ussa and Donga.
Church authorities reported that over 80 people have been killed, with many others injured, while displaced families now live in dire conditions without shelter, food, or medical care.
Communities Under Siege
According to the clergy, the suspected militias often launch coordinated assaults in the early hours of the morning, attacking sleeping residents, burning homes and crops, and seizing farmlands — a development worsening hunger and economic hardship in the region.
They warned that entire villages have effectively been taken over by attackers, leaving survivors stranded in overcrowded IDP camps.
Priests Demand Urgent Action
In a statement issued after the protest, the priests called on authorities to immediately deploy adequate security personnel to vulnerable rural communities.
They also demanded swift arrests and prosecution of those responsible for the violence, stressing that justice must be enforced regardless of ethnic, political, or religious ties.
The clergy further highlighted the desperate conditions facing internally displaced persons, listing urgent needs including food supplies, bedding, medical care, and temporary shelter to prevent a looming humanitarian disaster.
Residents Accuse Government Of Neglect
Earlier reports by SaharaReporters revealed that local residents and community leaders have accused security agencies and the state government of failing to protect them despite repeated pleas.
Some elders say attacks on Tiv Christian settlements have persisted for nearly two years, but have intensified sharply in recent weeks, leaving many communities abandoned and vulnerable.
