Protest Rocks Taraba After Terrorists Kill Six Residents
Residents of Amadu village in Takum Local Government Area of Taraba State on Tuesday as took to the streets to protest the killing of six locals by suspected terrorists on Monday night.
The victims — Terfa Terhemen, Tyoyinga Ngunan, Sondongu Hangem, Aondoso Tsea, Aondona Mteroga and Onov Nyoko — were reportedly attacked and killed in the late-night assault, prompting widespread outrage.
According to eyewitnesses, five of the victims were aged between 27 and 35, while the eldest was believed to be between 50 and 65.
A resident, Titus Himanyian, said the protest began early Tuesday, as villagers demanded justice and urgent government intervention.
“We are calling for peace and calm, but we also demand that the government takes concrete steps to protect us,” Himanyian said.
The killings have heightened fear in the community, with residents expressing deep concerns about their safety.
As of the time of filing this report, authorities had yet to comment on the incident or the mounting protests.
Earlier in November, the Taraba State Police Command launched an investigation into the alleged invasion of Chanchanji community in Takum by armed herders.
Residents, including Terkula Yooso and Philip Abur, reported that herders were sighted moving into Chanchanji Ward from neighbouring Donga Local Government Area, allegedly preparing coordinated attacks on nearby settlements.
Community sources said intelligence gathered in the area suggested plans for simultaneous assaults on Peva–Chanchanji and Kufai Ahmadu.
Yooso said the community had suffered repeated attacks blamed on the same group, leaving thousands displaced.
“These militants have struck several surrounding villages, displacing thousands. Many residents are already taking refuge in Peva and Amadu. We cannot survive another round of violence,” Yooso said.
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The alarm raised in Chanchanji followed a warning by the Parish Priest of Holy Family Catholic Parish, Rev. Fr. George Dogo, who lamented what he called a widening security breach across parts of Takum.
Residents said the area had become increasingly unsafe due to persistent attacks and slow government response.
The Holy Family Catholic Parish had earlier reported renewed assaults by suspected herders on multiple communities in Takum, resulting in the destruction of farmlands and the displacement of many villagers.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
