Suspected herders in Taraba State, Nigeria, have defied the recently announced peace accord and ceasefire order by Governor Agbu Kefas. On Tuesday, they killed three farmers in the Yangtu development area in the southern part of the state.
Governor Kefas had set up a peace committee to address the ongoing conflicts between the Kutebs and Fulani herders from Ussa and Takum local government areas of the state. The governor announced a ceasefire between the two tribes on Monday, following the signing of a peace accord by both parties at the Taraba State Government House.
Despite these efforts, the attackers brutally killed three Kuteb farmers in the Yantu Special Development Area. The victims were reportedly on their way to their farm early in the morning when they were attacked and butchered. The victims were identified as Mr. Rimamskep Atenji, Mr. Andekwab Yakubu Ashasim, and Mr. ElKannah Akyara, all of the Kuteb tribe.
The state police public relations officer (DSP), Usman Abdullahi, confirmed the incident and stated that security operatives had been dispatched to the area to restore normalcy and apprehend the perpetrators.
Mr. Emmanuel Madaki, the coordinator of the Yangtu special development area, condemned the attack and expressed frustration over the ongoing violence despite the peace accord. He called on the governor and security agencies to intensify efforts to ensure lasting peace in the region. He emphasized the determination of the Kuteb tribe to engage in peaceful farming activities and contribute to the state government’s goal of achieving food security.
The incident highlights the challenges in maintaining peace and stability in conflict-prone regions, despite the efforts of local authorities to mediate and enforce agreements.
