The Nigerian Army has achieved significant success in its ongoing security operations in Southern Taraba, recovering 91 rustled cattle and dislodging armed criminals from their hideouts. The military operation, conducted by troops of the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army, forms part of intensified efforts to restore peace and security in the troubled region.
Clearance Operations Across Multiple Locations
Between November 24 and 25, 2025, the Brigade conducted comprehensive clearance operations across Akesha, Zambana Forest, and Ayu Village in Takum and Donga Local Government Areas. These strategic operations specifically targeted suspected armed herdsmen and other criminal elements responsible for repeated attacks on farmlands, forced displacement of residents, and widespread disruption of agricultural activities.
According to a statement released to journalists in Jalingo on Thursday by the Brigade's Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, Lt. Umar Muhammad, the military action was based on credible intelligence. Troops advanced on identified criminal hideouts, prompting the armed elements to abandon their positions and flee into surrounding areas.
Recovery of Stolen Livestock and Community Impact
During operations in Akesha on November 24, soldiers successfully recovered 91 abandoned cattle that were found grazing on farmlands. The military secured the livestock to prevent further utilization by criminal elements. The following day, troops engaged criminals in Zambana Forest and Ayu Village, forcing them to retreat deeper into the forest.
The Army emphasized that these operations have significantly weakened the operational capabilities of criminal groups in the region. This military success has enabled displaced farmers to safely return to their farmlands to harvest and evacuate crops that had previously been inaccessible due to security concerns and fear of attacks.
Army Leadership Reaffirms Commitment to Security
Addressing both troops and local residents, the Brigade Commander, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, reaffirmed the Army's unwavering commitment to sustained operations in Southern Taraba, particularly as the yuletide season approaches. He issued a direct instruction regarding the recovered cattle, stating that anyone claiming ownership must report to the 93 Battalion in Takum for proper verification and identification procedures.
Brigadier General Uwa made it clear that no livestock would be released to claimants without first ensuring compensation for farmers whose farmlands suffered damage from the animals. He strongly condemned the violence perpetrated by marauding herders, describing it as a major driver of insecurity in Takum and surrounding communities.
The Brigade Commander also urged herders migrating into Taraba from other states to register with traditional rulers and local authorities as a preventive measure against conflicts and to maintain peaceful coexistence. He emphasized that Operation Zafin Wuta remains focused on dismantling criminal networks, protecting farming communities, restoring law and order, and ensuring that livestock activities do not threaten peace or food security in Southern Taraba.
Church Raises Alarm Over Escalating Violence
In related developments, the Catholic Diocese of Wukari in Taraba State has issued another distress call to the Federal Government following a surge in violent attacks on farming communities in Takum, Ussa, and other parts of Southern Taraba. According to a statement issued to journalists on Thursday in Jalingo, these attacks have claimed more than 50 lives in recent weeks.
The appeal, jointly signed by Very Rev. Fr. (Professor) Anthony I. Bature (Vicar Administration), Very Rev. Fr. Simon Akuraga (Chancellor), and Rev. Fr. Moses Angyian (Chairman of the NCDPA), came after a three-day workshop on Pastoral Care and Counselling for Traumatised and Distressed Internal Displaced Persons (IDPs) of the Diocese.
The church revealed alarming statistics, noting that more than 3,000 people have been killed over the past three decades in the region, with over 335 communities and churches destroyed and property worth billions of naira lost. The diocese also highlighted that more than 300,000 residents, mostly comprising widows, children, and orphans, have been displaced from their homes due to the persistent violence.
