Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Jalingo, Nigeria — A climate of fear has swept through parts of southern Taraba State, prompting residents in several rural communities to flee their homes amid reports of possible militia activity. Communities most affected include Chanchanji in Takum Local Government Area and Tor Damisa in Donga Local Government Area, where families abandoned homes and belongings to seek safety in neighbouring towns. The exodus has disrupted local life, including education and economic activity, while raising calls for urgent government intervention.
The panic escalated after a video circulated on social media warning of coordinated attacks by unidentified armed groups. Many residents, including children, left their homes hastily, with some creating makeshift shelters along major roads. Schools in the affected areas reported an influx of displaced families and, in some cases, temporarily suspended classes to accommodate the children of those fleeing the unrest.
Religious and local leaders have described an atmosphere of heightened anxiety. Community elders and clergy have appealed to the Taraba State Government and security agencies to intervene, restore confidence, and reassure residents. Governor Agbu Kefas has previously visited parts of the affected areas to demonstrate commitment to the safety of residents and coordinate with authorities from neighbouring regions.
The Taraba State Police Command addressed the situation, dismissing the viral video as false and intended to incite panic. Police confirmed there was no verified intelligence of planned militia attacks in the affected communities and urged residents to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information that could escalate tensions.
Despite official reassurances, residents remain cautious. The region has a history of communal violence and attacks by armed groups, including pastoralist militias, which have in previous years resulted in fatalities, property destruction, and displacement. This legacy has contributed to deep-seated fears, prompting residents to act quickly at any sign of potential threat.
Humanitarian concerns have also emerged. Displaced families face limited access to food, clean water, shelter, and sanitation. Local organisations and faith-based groups have mobilised to provide emergency relief, but resources remain stretched due to the scale of the displacement.
Economic activity has been disrupted, particularly in farming communities, where residents have abandoned fields, markets have slowed, and livelihoods are threatened. School administrators and community leaders continue to advocate for sustained security presence and direct communication with residents to rebuild confidence and prevent further panic.
Authorities have emphasised that patrols and monitoring are ongoing to deter any opportunistic violence and maintain peace. The government has urged displaced residents to return home safely and assured them of continued protection. Local leaders stress that sustained engagement, transparency, and timely communication are essential to prevent misinformation and ensure community safety.
The situation in Taraba highlights the broader challenges faced by rural communities in Nigeria’s Middle Belt, where sporadic violence, ethnic tensions, and armed group activity continue to affect stability and development. Authorities are working to restore calm, protect residents, and address both the immediate and underlying causes of insecurity.
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