By peterside Rejoice Eneky
The Nigerian Senate has raised alarm over the escalating violence in Taraba State, urging immediate intervention by security agencies and relief organizations following a deadly wave of attacks in Karim Lamido Local Government Area.
The motion, brought to the floor during Wednesday’s plenary by Senator Isa Shuaibu Lau (Taraba North), revealed that more than 70 people have been killed in a series of violent clashes between farmers, herders, and suspected bandits since Friday, May 23.
Senator Lau, speaking under Orders 41 and 51 of Senate rules, described the crisis as a national emergency, calling on the military and police to deploy surveillance and response units along the borders of Taraba, Plateau, and Bauchi states. He noted that the attackers have exploited the region’s dense forests to carry out their operations, burning homes and displacing hundreds.
“Over 47 houses have been destroyed. The displaced persons, mostly women and children, are now seeking refuge in makeshift camps across Lau and Karim Lamido LGAs,” Lau said.
The senator further appealed to the North-East Development Commission (NEDC) and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to deliver immediate relief materials to the affected communities, warning of a looming humanitarian disaster if nothing is done swiftly.
Following the presentation, the Senate unanimously adopted all resolutions in the motion, including a call for a minute of silence to honour the victims. Lawmakers expressed deep concern over the deteriorating security and humanitarian conditions in the area.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio reaffirmed the chamber’s commitment to ensuring that security and relief efforts are urgently mobilized to protect lives and restore stability in the region.
The Senate’s resolutions have been forwarded to the relevant security and humanitarian agencies for urgent action.
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