Herdsmen/Farmers Clash: Osinbajo Deploys Military To Taraba

Acting president Yemi Osinbajo has deployed security personnels to Taraba state following the recent clash between farmers and herdsmen in some communities in the state.

Osinbajo in a statement on Thursday, condemned the crisis, which led to the death of over 100 people and destruction of property worth millions.

Recall that some days ago, about 120 houses were razed in simultaneous attacks carried out on Fulani settlements in Sardauna Local Government Area of the state, and spread to some other neighboring communities.

It was gathered that several cows were also killed by the attackers who invaded several villages and settlements.

A resident of one of the affected villages, Malam Bello Haruna, told Daily Trust that several Mambilla youths led by militiamen invaded his village and shot several persons.

He said the attackers also set ablaze all the houses in the village and killed many cows, adding that he managed to escape along his two children and wife.

According to the statement on Osinbajo’s Facebook page, the acting president offered his condolence to the families affected by the crisis, while he assured the affected communities that the Federal Government will provide relief materials to victims.

The statement reads: “With great sorrow, I offer my condolences to the victims of the violent attacks in communities in Taraba State.

“The perpetrators of these attacks and acts of violence will be brought to book.

“Yesterday, I summoned and held an emergency meeting with top security officials of the Federal Government and Governor Darius Dickson Ishaku. I have also ordered the deployment of an extra military battalion, police reinforcements and also a deployment of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps to the areas affected.

“Provision of relief materials will be delivered to the affected communities in Toffi, Mayo Daga, Mayo Sina, Tamiya, Kwara-Kwara, Tungan Lugere, Timjire, Nguroje and other villages in the hinterlands of Mambilla Plateau.

“Long term solutions including mediation between opposing groups in the communal conflict have also been put into motion.

“Tragedies like these will raise many emotions but we must remain committed to the reign of peace and use of peaceful methods to resolve issues.

“My condolences go the people and the Government of Taraba State, may we never see this again.”