Tension rises in Taraba as Wukari communities cry out over security threat

Anxiety is spreading across Wukari Local Government Area of Taraba State as residents of several rural communities have sounded the alarm over what they described as an escalating security challenge linked to the sudden influx of Fulani herders into their area.

Communities affected by the development include Ikyaior, Jandekyula, Gbor-Ucha, Sondi, Gbonkom, Kente, Vaase, Gbeji and nearby forest settlements, where locals report that large groups of unfamiliar herders have recently moved in and are now occupying villages and farmlands.

According to community members, the trend is unusual and deviates from long-standing practices, as herders normally transit through the area during the rainy season in search of pasture and exit once the dry season sets in.

This time, however, the migration is happening in the dry season and in far greater numbers, sparking fears of possible infiltration by criminal elements.

Some residents suspect that the influx may be connected to ongoing military operations against banditry in other regions, forcing herders to relocate to safer areas.

They warned that the situation poses a serious threat to the largely Tiv and Jukun agrarian communities inhabiting Wukari LGA.

The residents accused the herders of massive destruction of farmlands, alleging that crops such as cassava and yam are being uprooted and fed to cattle.

They also lamented the pollution of streams and other water sources, claiming that cattle are driven into them, thereby contaminating water used for drinking and household purposes.

They further stated that unchecked grazing has caused significant environmental damage, including soil erosion, land degradation and the loss of fertile topsoil, leaving many farms unproductive.

In addition to economic and environmental losses, the communities expressed deep concern over security, citing reported cases of rape and violent assaults on locals.

They alleged that some herders intimidate residents with machetes and other weapons when confronted.

Community leaders also raised alarm that some of the herders are erecting permanent structures rather than temporary shelters, which they interpret as a plan for long-term settlement.

They further alleged that the herders openly carry dangerous weapons such as knives, machetes and, in certain cases, firearms.

Rejecting what they described as forced occupation, the residents insisted that no group has the right to invade another state or community and take over land without permission.

They called on security agencies and relevant government authorities to urgently step in to safeguard lives and property in Ikyaior, Chuda, Jandekyula, Riti, Gbor-Ucha, Sondi, Vaase, Tse-Amenger, Kente and Gbeji.

The residents warned that continued inaction could trigger a breakdown of law and order and further heighten tension in Wukari Local Government Area of Taraba State.