By Mercy Gadia
The House of Representatives on Tuesday called for immediate intervention to halt the loss of lives and destruction of property arising from the ongoing conflict between Karinjo and Wurkun communities in Karim Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State.
The resolution followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance moved by the member representing Lau/Karim Lamido/Ardo-Kola Federal Constituency, Hon. Mohammed Audu, during plenary.
Moving the motion pursuant to Order Eight Rule 4 of the House Standing Orders, Audu said violence erupted between the two communities on May 29, 2026, and had persisted, resulting in the death of no fewer than five persons, with several others injured.
He noted that the clashes had also led to the destruction of properties, farm produce and livestock worth millions of naira.
The lawmaker expressed concern that the crisis, compounded by banditry attacks along the borders of Taraba, Plateau, Bauchi and Gombe states, had displaced over 100 residents across affected communities.
According to him, the displaced persons, including those in Salakan and surrounding settlements, have been rendered homeless and exposed to further attacks, with limited access to potable water and other basic necessities.
Audu further stated that the victims, predominantly farmers, had lost their means of livelihood, adding that communities such as Mutum Dava, Bambur Zailani, Didango, Andami and Mayo-Gauri were now hosting large numbers of displaced persons.
“The victims are facing untold hardship as their primary sources of livelihood have been destroyed,” he said.
Following deliberations, the House observed a minute silence in honour of those who lost their lives in the clashes.
The lawmakers also urged the National Emergency Management Agency to urgently provide relief materials to displaced persons who have taken refuge in Karim town, Usmanu and Wuro Lacha.
In addition, the House called on the North East Development Commission and the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons to provide shelter and rehabilitation support for victims in the affected communities.
The House commended security agencies, including the Nigerian Army, Police and the Department of State Services, for their prompt response to the crisis, and urged them to ensure that those responsible for the violence are apprehended and prosecuted.
It also appreciated the Taraba State Governor for taking swift action in response to the situation.