News
Trouble in Taraba

***Kuteb Ethnic Group Alleges Genocide, as Over 300 Killed in 50 Villages By Bandits
*** Generations Risk Being Wiped out through Ethno-Religious Crisis ***
By: Samuel Uhuru Adaji in Jalingo with additional Reports.
Taraba state is perhaps home to greater number if ethnic nationalities than any State in Nigeria, and it is also the hub of farming.
Irrespective of tribe, Tarsbans are known to produce more yams and rice than any people in the Northern region.
But their ethnic multiplicity is becoming a curse, and their farming vocation is turning into a nightmare.
This is owing to the fact that, the area area known as Taraba State today is also a meltingpot for ethno-religious crisis long before it was curved out of the defunct Gongola State in 1991.
The story of inter tribal skirmishes between the Jukuns and Kutebs, the Tivs and Kutebs, the Fulani and other indigent tribes or the Chamba and the Jukun, amongst other related crisis are historical facts.
Most of the crises of the past have often been widely reported in the media, while the current situation appears to being downplayed in the media.
Depending upon where ones sympathy lies, people will tend to lay blames at the doors of their adversaries, to the effect that no one can say with any measure of balance, who the agressors and who the victims are.
This crisis, which the locals alleged is being deliberately underplayed portends more serious and pathetic situation, threatens to undermine the survival of local communities, with consequent threats of extinction.
Our correspondent has been on the trails if developments in the affected areas of Taraba state, and reports that, about 54 villages have been completely sacked by marauding arm Fulani bandits and the entirety of their citizens displaced.
Most affected areas are either in Ussa, Bali or Gassol Local Government Areas, Where houses and worship places have been pulled down . Indigent farmers are being ambushed and killed almost on daily basis, with over 300 them killed so far, even as their crops have been destroyed.
Only last week, three big settlement’s were attacked with eighteen people killed and many others unaccounted for to date.
The attacks which have been described as a daily occurrence by fleeing residents is very well known to the authorities, but the Government does not seem to be saying anything, neither does security agencies posted to secure the affected areas.
President of Kuteb Yafo of Nigeria, Comrade Emma Ukwem , told National TRAIL that, no succour seems to be coming the way of thousands of victims who fled from the orgy of violence.
“No relief materials are given to our people.The bandits normally come in their hundreds well armed to kill and go back without any form of challenge”, he added.
While lamenting that those arrested by the Army turned out to be Fulani’s and we’re immediately released, Comrade Emma Ukwem said there has never been any form of reaction from the State Government since the massacre started.
“As far as we know there has never been any visit from ay Government official, and there was never any official statement on the plight of the Kuteb people. The Fulani bandits operate at will without any form of challenge”.
Ukwem was of the opinion that there seems to be a grand conspiracy against the Kuteb nation with the intent to wipe them off from the state, even as he alleged that, a particular ethnic group may be masterminding the attacks.
Member, representing Ussa Constituency in the Taraba state House of Assembly Honorable Habila Anderifun in a statement obtained by National TRAIL on Monday said, his Constituency is still under siege, as reports reaching him indicated that attacks were going on while he was issuing the statement.
He said, “Ussa Local Government area of Taraba State has been under siege by Fulani bandits and their Cohorts since April this Year.
Today being Monday 19th September 2022, three villages have been razed down, five people killed and Farm products worth millions of naira destroyed.”
“Humanitarian crisis has risen to an unimaginable level with outbreak of diseases.I want to call on both the State Government and Federal Government to come to our help. Our people are being killed daily yet no protection from the Government.”
“We appeal to the Federal Government to send Military as a matter of urgency to protect the people of Ussa from this act of genocide. People whose farm products are ready for harvest can not go to farm for fear of being killed. So far about 120 people have been killed since April this year”, the lawmaker observed.
According to him, a committee has been set up to look into the matter, and they are hoping for a cessation of hostilities against their people, but something urgent must be done in the meantime.
” I am appealing for both Military and Food as well as medical support for our people.Hon Anderifun, added.
As at time of filling this report, a formal pronunciation from the Taraba State Government, through the peace committee was still being expected.
News
EID-EL-KABIR: BELLO BABAYO BELLO COMMENDS TINUBU, SHETTIMA, GOMBE GOVERNOR AS HE FELICITATES WITH MUSLIMS NATIONWIDE
The Executive Director, Networks, Niger Delta Power Holding Company Limited (NDPHC), Engr. Bello Babayo Bello, FNSE, has extended warm felicitations to Muslim faithful across Nigeria, particularly the people of Gombe State, on the occasion of the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebration, urging citizens to continue promoting peace, unity, love, and national development.
In a goodwill message released to journalists on the occasion of the Islamic festival, Engr. Bello described Eid-el-Kabir as a sacred celebration that reflects the virtues of sacrifice, obedience, faith, compassion, and gratitude to Almighty Allah as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim (AS).
He called on Muslims to use the spiritual significance of the season to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood, support one another, and continue praying for the peace, stability, and prosperity of Nigeria.
Engr. Bello also commended the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his commitment to national development, economic reforms, infrastructural advancement, and efforts aimed at strengthening unity and progress across the country.
According to him, the administration of President Tinubu has continued to demonstrate determination in laying foundations for long-term growth and national transformation through bold policies and strategic governance initiatives.
The NDPHC Executive Director equally praised Vice President Kashim Shettima, GCON, for his loyalty, dedication, and support toward the actualization of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Federal Government.
He noted that the Vice President has continued to play a vital role in promoting stability, inclusion, and effective coordination within government.
Engr. Bello further applauded the Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, for what he described as purposeful leadership and remarkable strides in infrastructural development, healthcare, education, youth empowerment, and peaceful coexistence in the state.
He said the governor’s developmental policies and inclusive style of governance have continued to attract admiration and confidence from the people of Gombe State and beyond.
“Eid-el-Kabir remains a season of reflection, gratitude, sacrifice, and devotion to Almighty Allah. It is also a period that reminds us of the importance of unity, compassion, tolerance, and service to humanity. As we celebrate, we must continue to pray for our leaders and for the continued peace, progress, and prosperity of our dear nation,” he stated.
Engr. Bello urged Muslim faithful to extend love and kindness to the less privileged, widows, orphans, and vulnerable members of society during the Sallah festivities, stressing that charity and generosity are central teachings of Islam.
He also commended the people of Gombe State for sustaining the culture of peaceful coexistence, harmony, and mutual respect among diverse communities.
The engineering professional and public administrator expressed optimism that Nigeria would continue to witness greater development, unity, and economic advancement under the leadership of President Tinubu.
He prayed for Allah’s continued guidance, wisdom, protection, and blessings upon the President, Vice President, Governor Inuwa Yahaya, and all leaders across the country.
Engr. Bello finally wished Muslim faithful in Gombe State and across Nigeria a peaceful, joyous, and spiritually fulfilling Eid-el-Kabir celebration.
News
Dogara Celebrates Eid El-Adha, Urges Nigerians to Embrace Unity, Sacrifice, and Compassion
Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara, former Speaker of the House of Representatives and Chairman of the Board of National Credit Guarantee Company Limited (NCGC), has extended heartfelt felicitations to Muslims across Nigeria and around the world on the occasion of Eid El-Adha.
In his Eid message, Dogara described the festival as one of the most profound moments in the Islamic faith — a sacred season that embodies the enduring virtues of sacrifice, obedience, faith, and total devotion to God, as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim (AS). He noted that beyond its spiritual significance, Eid El-Adha serves as a powerful reminder of the values of compassion, generosity, and love for humanity.
According to him, the celebration offers an opportunity for reflection and renewal, urging Nigerians to recommit themselves to the ideals of unity, peace, and mutual understanding. He observed that the true essence of Eid lies not merely in celebration, but in the willingness to serve others selflessly and uplift the less privileged.
“Eid El-Adha reminds us that greatness is found in sacrifice, service, and compassion for one another. It is a season that calls us to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood, extend kindness to those in need, and renew hope for a better and more united nation,” Dogara stated.
The former Speaker stressed that the lessons of Eid should transcend religious and ethnic boundaries, especially at a time when Nigeria needs collective commitment to peace, justice, and national cohesion. He called on citizens to rise above division and work together in the spirit of patriotism and shared destiny.
“As we celebrate this sacred festival, may the spirit of sacrifice inspire us to build bridges of understanding, promote harmony across our communities, and work collectively for a more peaceful, just, and prosperous Nigeria,” he added.
Dogara further prayed that the blessings of Eid El-Adha would bring joy to families, healing to communities, and progress to the nation. He encouraged the faithful to use the occasion as a time for spiritual renewal, deeper devotion to God, stronger family ties, and renewed commitment to the common good.
“As families gather in prayer and celebration, may this Eid remind us of our shared humanity and our collective responsibility to serve with humility, love, and sincerity. May the Almighty accept our prayers and sacrifices, bless our homes with peace and happiness, and guide our nation toward greater unity and prosperity,” he concluded.
Dogara wished all Muslim faithful a peaceful and joyous Eid El-Adha celebration filled with divine blessings, love, hope, and renewed faith in the future of Nigeria.
News
Ukhomunyio Community Seeks Edo Government Intervention Over Insecurity
A group of concerned stakeholders in Ukhomunyio Community, Okpella, Edo State, has called on the Edo State Government and security agencies to strengthen security presence in the area following recent security concerns and incidents of violence.
In a statement jointly signed by community stakeholders, the group said that the once-peaceful Ukhomunyio Community had in recent weeks experienced growing tension and insecurity.
The statement was jointly signed by Sam S. O. Afemikhe, Roland Ediawe, Dr Henry Idogun, Kasimu Sunday, Mark Adogah, Friday Ododeh, Omoreige Usman, Dr Victor Balogun, and Prince Haruna Ahmed.
The stakeholders urged the government to deploy more security personnel to the community and surrounding areas to help maintain peace and prevent further breakdown of law and order.
“We therefore call on the Edo State Government, security agencies, and all relevant authorities to immediately intervene by strengthening security presence within Ukhomunyio Community and surrounding areas,” the statement said.
They also called for a thorough investigation into recent incidents of violence and disturbances linked to the annual Olimi Festival.
According to the statement, the community recently recorded tragic incidents involving residents of Kalaba and Imioko villages, while some persons were reportedly abducted during the attacks and later reunited with their families.
The group described the incidents as unfortunate and contrary to the community’s peaceful traditions.
“We strongly condemn these acts, which are completely alien to the long-standing peaceful tradition of our community,” the statement added.
The stakeholders further expressed concern over violence that erupted during the recent Olimi Festival, saying some individuals allegedly used firearms during the celebration.
They said the violence resulted in casualties and injuries, with some affected persons currently receiving medical treatment.
“The Olimi Festival has historically been a symbol of unity, peace, celebration, and cultural heritage among the people of Ukhomunyio and Okpella in general,” the group stated.
According to the statement, the festival had historically symbolised unity, peace, and cultural heritage among the people of Ukhomunyio and the wider Okpella community.
The group also appealed to authorities to ensure that all investigations and security operations are carried out lawfully and fairly to avoid escalating tensions within the community.
Beyond strengthening security, the stakeholders called on authorities to prevent further violence and restore peace and confidence within the community.
They warned that continued insecurity could affect economic and social activities in the area, including operations linked to major industries.
As part of efforts to support investigations, the group announced a N1 million reward for credible information that could assist security agencies in identifying those behind the recent incidents.
Another N1 million reward was offered for information that could help authorities identify individuals connected to the violence during the Olimi Festival.
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