A deadly communal conflict has erupted in the Karim-Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State, Nigeria, resulting in the loss of at least 40 lives and displacing hundreds of people over the past two weeks. The clashes between farmers and herders have sparked a cycle of violence and counter-violence, with both sides suffering heavy losses.

According to Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency expert and security analyst in the Lake Chad region, the crisis began on May 9 with a confrontation over farmland encroachment. A Bandawa youth, Buhari Malamby, had allegedly clashed with two Fulani herders whose cattle had strayed onto his farm. The situation escalated when dozens of youths attacked the herders with machetes, resulting in Malamby’s death. In retaliation, youths from Bandawa slaughtered several cattle, prompting armed Fulani youths to invade the Badawa community, killing two people and injuring another.

The violence continued to spiral out of control, with security forces struggling to contain the situation. A peace meeting was convened on May 15 and 16, attended by key stakeholders from the affected communities, including Bandawa, Munga Dasso, Munga Lelau, and the Fulani settlements. Although a pledge was made to sign a peace accord at a later date, the fragile truce was short-lived.

The killing of a Munga Dasso youth by Fulani youths sparked another wave of violence, with Munga Lelau youths retaliating by killing four individuals. Heavily armed Fulani militia then launched a large-scale assault on Munga Lelau, forcing authorities to impose a dusk-to-dawn curfew across the affected areas.

Despite the presence of troops and police, the region remains on edge, with many residents still fearful of another round of attacks. While some have returned to their homes, others remain trapped in fear, unsure of what the future holds. The conflict has highlighted the deep-seated tensions between farmers and herders in the region, with land disputes and cattle encroachment contributing to the escalating violence.

As the situation continues to unfold, it is clear that a lasting solution will require a concerted effort from all stakeholders, including community leaders, security forces, and government officials. The international community will be watching closely, hoping that a peaceful resolution can be found to this deadly and devastating conflict.