Jalingo, Taraba State – A wave of violence has swept through Taraba State, leaving 11 people dead in the wake of brutal bandit attacks. The attacks, which targeted communities in the Yangtu Development Area and Ussa Local Government, have sent shockwaves through the region, plunging residents into fear and uncertainty.
The latest onslaught began on Friday evening when armed bandits descended upon the communities of Rubur Ribasi, Nyicwu, and Ruwah, unleashing a reign of terror. In a chilling display of brutality, they indiscriminately opened fire on unsuspecting residents, leaving at least nine people dead.
The violence extended beyond these three communities, with the bandits also striking Tukwog Community along the Takum-Manya road, claiming the life of another innocent individual.
The Taraba State Police Command has confirmed the attacks and is currently investigating the circumstances surrounding them.
This latest surge in violence has exacerbated the already dire security situation in Taraba State, where banditry and other forms of armed violence have become increasingly prevalent. The Kuteb people of Takum, Ussa, and Yangtu Development Area have been particularly hard hit, bearing the brunt of these attacks for over a year.
The relentless violence has not only resulted in the loss of countless lives but has also displaced thousands of people, forcing them to flee their homes in search of safety. This displacement has further strained resources and disrupted livelihoods, exacerbating the hardships faced by the affected communities.
The Taraba State government has condemned the attacks in the strongest possible terms, calling for the perpetrators to be brought to justice. However, with the security situation in the region deteriorating, residents are growing increasingly concerned about their safety and the future of their communities.
The need for urgent action is now more apparent than ever. The authorities must work tirelessly to restore security and stability to Taraba State, ensuring that the lives of its people are protected. The safety and well-being of the Kuteb people, in particular, must be prioritized, and efforts must be made to address the underlying causes of the violence.