Taraba Intensifies Peace Efforts In Karim

Taraba State government has unveiled a multifaceted security strategy to tackle the root causes of the recurring violence in Karim-Lamido local government area.

The special adviser to the Governor on Security and Intelligence, Col. Joshua Garbiya Kwelle (rtd), said the government was addressing the complex security challenges in Karim-Lamido through a combination of security operations, community engagement, conflict-resolution initiatives and collaboration with the traditional institutions.

In an interview with LEADERSHIP in Jalingo, Kwelle described the security situation in Karim-Lamido as multifaceted, noting that the area had been affected by communal disputes, farmer-herder clashes, cattle rustling and cross-border banditry for years.

According to him, one of the longstanding issues is the traditional and cultural dispute between the Wurkum and Karimjo communities. At the same time, resource-based conflicts between farmers and herders have also contributed to the instability in the area.

The State security adviser further explained that Karim-Lamido’s proximity to Bauchi, Gombe, Plateau, and other states has made it vulnerable to attacks by criminal elements, who exploit state boundaries to carry out operations before retreating into neighbouring territories.

Despite these challenges, Col. Kwelle maintained that the security situation in Taraba has improved considerably under the current administration of Governor Agbu Kefas.”

“Compared to what was obtainable three years ago, insecurity has been significantly reduced across the state. While security challenges still exist, Taraba is far safer today than it was in the past,” he said.

The security adviser disclosed that a government committee established to investigate the recurring crises in Karim-Lamido had completed its assignment and submitted its report to the state government.

He recalled that Governor Kefas had pledged to implement the recommendations contained in the committee’s white paper once released, irrespective of those found culpable.

According to him, the committee extensively examined communal disputes, farmer-herder conflicts, and other security concerns affecting the area to develop sustainable solutions.

Col. Kwelle also highlighted the state government’s ongoing efforts to combat banditry in Karim-Lamido and its surrounding communities.

He revealed that, following intelligence reports of criminal activities around the Muri axis of the local government, Governor Kefas convened a stakeholders’ meeting involving traditional rulers, community leaders and members of the state’s security council.”

“At the meeting, the governor reportedly directed traditional authorities to mobilise local vigilante groups and community members, with government support, to assist security agencies in flushing out criminal elements from their hideouts.”

The adviser noted that the operation yielded positive results, even as the fluid nature of bandit activities continues to pose challenges.

He added that security agencies in Taraba have also coordinated operations with neighbouring states to prevent criminals from taking advantage of border communities.

On efforts to resolve the protracted traditional leadership dispute between the Wurkum and Karimjo communities, Col. Kwelle said the government was exploring various options to address the matter and promote peaceful coexistence.

He stressed that the state and local authorities were equally focused on identifying and prosecuting individuals allegedly responsible for instigating violence and undermining peace initiatives in the area.”

“There are individuals who thrive on instability and continue to fuel crises from behind the scenes. Government is determined to identify such persons and ensure they face the full weight of the law,” he said.

He then reaffirmed the government’s commitment to restoring lasting peace in Karim-Lamido.