By BONIFACE AKARAH

The Catholic Diocese of Wukari has issued a security alert over reports of planned attacks in parts of Taraba State, warning priests and residents in affected areas to take precautionary measures.

The alert, contained in a March 25, 2026 letter signed by Vicar Administration and Chairman Peace Committee, Very Rev. Fr. (Prof.) Anthony Bature, cited intelligence from an organisation, Equipping the Persecuted, which warned of possible attacks beginning March 23 in Takum, Chanchanji, Tor Damisa ward of Donga Local Government Area, and surrounding communities.

“There is a video clip circulating on social media… warning of an imminent attack beginning from March 23, 2026 by the Fulani Ethnic Militia in Takum, Chanchanji and Tor Damisa ward of Donga Local Government among other places,” the statement read.

The Diocese noted that an earlier attack attempt in Chanchanji between March 21 and 22 was repelled by the military but warned that armed groups were regrouping in multiple locations.

“More and more of these terrorists are regrouping in many places around Takum Local Government Area in places like New Gboko and others and in Donga Local Government Area along the Donga River and Ananum,” it stated.

According to the Diocese, the development has triggered fear among residents, leading to displacement across affected communities.

“The news of these attacks is deepening the fear and anxiety of the people leading to their mass exodus to unknown destinations without any hope in sight,” the letter added.

The Bishop of Wukari Diocese, Mark Maigida Nzukwein, directed clergy in the affected areas to raise awareness and coordinate with security agencies to prevent further attacks.

“Deans should particularly reach out to security agencies in their jurisdictions and draw their attention to this pending attacks so as to beef up security in order to avert the looming humanitarian disaster,” the Diocese said.

Painting a troubling picture of the ordeal of the Diocese, Very Rev. Fr. (Prof.) Bature lamented: “This is a precarious situation we are facing here in southern Taraba State. With impunity, the Fulani terrorists are ravaging villages and murdering innocent villagers, including security personnel,” the cleric said.

“This systematic genocide unfortunately has been going on for years. The intensity of the destruction and killing has increased, in recent times, with no end in sight,” the source added.

The cleric also raised concerns over displacement and destruction of infrastructure, including religious facilities.

“Currently, the displaced are unprecedented. No help from anywhere. The only minimal assistance so foreseen comes from the Catholic JDPC of Wukari Diocese. Unfortunately, worshiping places and priest residences are completely destroyed,” he said.

As of press time, security agencies had not issued an official response to the alert or confirmed details of the reported threats, even as calls for heightened vigilance continue across affected communities.