Residents of Chanchanji in Takum Local Government Area of Taraba State are living in fear, following reports that suspected armed herders have infiltrated the community, allegedly planning coordinated assaults.

Community members, Terkula Yooso and Philip Abur, raised the alarm in separate interviews, claiming that the armed group was seen moving into Chanchanji Ward from neighbouring Donga Local Government Area.

They said intelligence gathered by locals revealed that the attackers were plotting simultaneous offensives on Peva-Chanchanji and Kufai Ahmadu towns, both in Chanchanji Ward.

Yooso expressed deep concern over the development, noting that the community has suffered several attacks in the past. “These same militants have attacked nearby villages repeatedly, displacing thousands. Many residents are now taking refuge in Peva and Amadu towns. We can’t endure another round of violence,” he lamented.

Abur also confirmed the reports and appealed to security agencies for prompt intervention to avert disaster. “The warning signs are obvious. The government must act now before it’s too late,” he said.

The warning from Chanchanji residents follows a recent alarm raised by Rev. Fr. George Dogo, the Parish Priest of Holy Family Catholic Church, Takum, over renewed attacks by suspected herders in the area, which have led to the destruction of farmlands and mass displacement of villagers.

The Church had earlier cautioned that the increasing frequency of attacks points to a worsening security situation in the region.

Residents who spoke to our correspondent urged the immediate deployment of security forces, lamenting that the community has become highly exposed due to persistent raids and delayed government response.

When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Victor Ishaku, said he had just received the information and would investigate the situation. However, he had yet to provide an update as of the time of filing this report.