The United Methodist Church Nigeria Episcopal Area has condemned the recent attacks on Bandawa, Gurore Jabu, and Munga Dosso communities in Karim Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State.
In a statement signed by the Director of Communication, Rev. Filibus Bakari Auta, the church described the situation as “unfortunate and worrisome”.
The attacks, reportedly carried out by suspected Fulani herders, resulted in the loss of innocent lives, displacement of families, and destruction of homes and properties. According to reports, the violence erupted between May 12 and 14 in villages of Mungadosso, Bandawa, Wuro Guga, and the Fitowa bush, leaving no fewer than 16 people dead in a devastating series of reprisals.
The church mourned with the affected families and communities, standing in solidarity with those grieving and suffering. “With deep sorrow and righteous indignation, the Office of the Bishop of the United Methodist Church in Taraba State condemns in the strongest possible terms the recent attacks carried out by suspected Fulani herders on our members in Bandawa, Gurore Jabu, and Munga Dosso communities,” the statement read.
The United Methodist Church believes in peace, justice, and the sacredness of human life. The church called on all relevant authorities, local, state, and federal, to act swiftly to investigate these attacks, bring the perpetrators to justice, and ensure the safety and security of all citizens, regardless of their faith, ethnicity, or location.
The church also appealed to fellow Christians, interfaith communities, and civil society organizations to unite in prayer, advocacy, and support for the victims. “The time has come for concerted action to end the cycle of violence that continues to afflict our rural communities,” the statement emphasized.
Bishop Emmanuel Ande urged members to remain vigilant and steadfast in faith, even in the face of provocation. “As the Scripture reminds us in Romans 12:21, ‘Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good,'” the bishop said, concluding the statement with a prayer for comfort for the afflicted, strength for the weak, and wisdom and courage for leaders.
The root of this renewed carnage remains the age-old land and water disputes between farmers and herders—an issue that continues to inflame violence across Nigeria’s Middle Belt. Authorities are pleading for calm and pushing for dialogue, while security patrols scramble to prevent further bloodshed [1].