Taraba Attack: 37 Buried, Gov. Kefas Missing

A wave of grief and anger swept through Karim-Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State as residents conducted a mass burial for over 37 individuals killed in a recent attack by suspected herdsmen. Governor Agbu Kefas was conspicuously absent from the state during the ceremony.

According to reports, the governor departed Jalingo via Danbaba Suntai Airport at approximately 2:45 p.m., around the same time grieving villagers in Munga community were preparing to inter their dead.

The weekend attack marks yet another tragedy in a string of violent incidents that have recently afflicted Karim-Lamido.

Residents who spoke to our reporter expressed deep disappointment with what they described as the state government’s lack of compassion and visible support.

“The governor urged us to return home, but he’s nowhere to be seen while we bury over 37 of our people. Where is he now?” a villager asked in anguish.

Community members also raised alarms over inadequate security in the area, noting that local hunters and vigilantes have been left to confront well-armed attackers without adequate backing.

“These attackers are not unknown. The governor and military officials held meetings with the parties involved just weeks ago. We warned them, but nothing was done,” another resident recounted.

While the Taraba State Commissioner of Police, Emmanuel S. Brete, has visited the affected communities to speak with residents and Fulani leaders, the 6 Brigade Commander, Brigadier General Kingsley Uwa, was reportedly en route to the area at the time of this report, with plans to initiate peace dialogues between the groups.

In the past two weeks alone, Karim-Lamido has recorded at least 57 deaths, with hundreds displaced, properties destroyed, farmlands ravaged, and many people still unaccounted for.

As the situation worsens, there is growing pressure on Governor Kefas to return to the state and offer decisive leadership. Community leaders are also demanding urgent intervention, including enhanced security measures and humanitarian aid for displaced residents.