The Taraba State Police Command says it has begun investigating reports that suspected killer herders have invaded Chanchanji community in the Takum Local Government Area, sparking widespread fear among residents.
Community members, including Terkula Yooso and Philip Abur, claimed in separate interviews on Tuesday that armed herders were sighted moving into Chanchanji Ward from neighbouring Donga LGA, allegedly planning coordinated attacks.
According to the locals, intelligence gathered suggests plans for simultaneous assaults on Peva–Chanchanji and Kufai Ahmadu towns, both within the Ward.
Yooso said the community remained on edge due to past attacks blamed on the same group.
“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,” he said.
Abur urged security agencies to respond urgently to prevent further bloodshed.
“The signs are clear. The government must act immediately to avert tragedy,” he said.
The alarm in Chanchanji follows a similar warning by the Parish Priest of Holy Family Catholic Parish, Takum, Rev. Fr. George Dogo, who recently raised concerns over renewed attacks on communities in the area, noting what he described as a widening security breach.
Residents who spoke to PUNCH appealed for rapid deployment of security personnel, lamenting that repeated assaults and delayed government response had left the area highly vulnerable.
When contacted, Police Public Relations Officer, Victor Ishaku, said the command had received the report and commenced investigation. He, however, had yet to provide updates as of press time.
