The Taraba State Government has attributed the recent attacks in parts of Gassol and Bali Local Government Areas to cattle rustlers from the neighboring Republic of Cameroon. During a press conference in Jalingo, the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Mrs. Lois Emmanuel, clarified that allegations suggesting Governor Darius Ishaku was sponsoring the crisis against a specific ethnic group were unfounded and the work of mischief makers.
Mrs. Emmanuel explained that the government’s investigations revealed the ongoing security challenges in Gassol and Bali are primarily due to cattle rustling incidents perpetrated by intruders from Cameroon. She stated, “The attention of the Taraba State Government has been drawn to the ongoing rumors and the mischievous interpretations surrounding the current security challenges in these areas.” She emphasized that those spreading these narratives have attempted to mischaracterize the situation as an ethnic conflict, when in fact, it is a case of cattle rustling.
The commissioner further elaborated that the cattle rustlers have invaded several communities, posing threats to lives and properties, particularly targeting the cattle owned by indigenous inhabitants. This situation has led to resistance from the local population. She clarified that the issues at hand do not stem from inter-ethnic or intra-ethnic rivalry. “These two local governments are among the most naturally endowed parts of Taraba State, especially in agricultural produce, making them attractive to both foreigners and Nigerians seeking opportunities in farming and business activities,” she noted. Unfortunately, this influx has also attracted criminals who exploit the hospitality of the indigenous people, often exceeding acceptable boundaries.
Moreover, the Internally Displaced Persons’ camps have not been immune to these marauders, who have been known to commit acts of violence, including murder and sexual assault. The indigenous community’s efforts to combat these trends are central to the current issues in the region. In response to the security challenges, the government has implemented measures to curb criminal activities and promote peaceful coexistence between visitors and residents. The commissioner assured that innocent foreigners would not face harm or victimization.
To address the situation, the government has engaged local vigilantes to help control criminal activities, ensuring they operate under the strict supervision of security agencies to prevent any abuse of power. “This benevolence and civility will remain the emphasis and focus of government intervention now and in the future in these areas and the state in general,” she affirmed. The commissioner reiterated that the safety of lives and properties in these regions and throughout the state is the government’s top priority. She also assured all non-indigenes on legitimate missions in Taraba State of protection from security agencies.
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