Catholic Priests Protest Killings In Taraba
Catholic priests under the Diocese of Wukari have staged a protest in Taraba State over renewed attacks in the southern part of the state, saying more than 200 churches and communities have been destroyed.
The clergy said the violence has displaced over 90,000 people and left at least 80 dead since September 2025.
The protest was held to draw attention to what they described as a worsening humanitarian crisis affecting areas within the diocese.
Speaking after the march, the Vicar Pastoral of the Diocese, Very Rev Father James Yaropay, said communities in Chanchanji Ward of Takum Local Government Area, as well as parts of Ussa and Donga councils, have suffered repeated assaults.
He said thousands have been forced out of their homes, with many now taking shelter in difficult conditions.
According to the priests, attackers often strike in the early hours, targeting sleeping residents, destroying houses, churches and harvested crops.
They also alleged that farmlands have been taken over, worsening food shortages and economic hardship.
In a statement released after the protest, the clergy called on the government to deploy more security personnel to affected areas without delay.
They demanded the arrest and prosecution of those behind the attacks, regardless of background.
The priests also raised concerns about conditions in Internally Displaced Persons camps, calling for urgent support including food, bedding, medical care and temporary shelter to prevent a larger humanitarian crisis.
Community leaders have earlier accused authorities of failing to respond adequately to repeated appeals for help, saying many villages have been overrun and residents forced to flee.
