The Catholic Diocese of Wukari has issued a grave security alert to priests and consecrated persons following intelligence reports of possible coordinated attacks in parts of Taraba State, heightening tension across affected communities.
In a directive dated March 25, 2026, and addressed to clergy within the diocese, the Bishop’s House warned of an escalating threat landscape, urging heightened vigilance amid growing uncertainty and fear among residents.
The alert follows a viral video circulating on social media, reportedly linked to an organisation identified as “Equipping the Persecuted,” in which its Executive Director, Judd Saul, raised concerns over imminent attacks allegedly planned by Fulani ethnic militia.
According to the advisory, the areas identified as potential flashpoints include Takum, Chanchanji, and Tor Damisa Ward in Donga Local Government Area, among other vulnerable locations within the region.
The diocese noted that a similar attack had earlier been anticipated and reportedly attempted in Chanchanji between March 21 and 22, but was successfully repelled by military forces, temporarily averting disaster.
However, fresh intelligence indicates that suspected attackers are regrouping in several locations, including New Gboko in Takum Local Government Area, as well as along the Donga River axis and Ananum in Donga Local Government Area.
The development, the church warned, has triggered widespread panic, forcing many residents to flee their homes in search of safety, even as uncertainty clouds their prospects of return.
The statement, conveyed by the Vicar Administration and Chairman of the Peace Committee, Very Rev. Fr. (Prof.) Anthony Bature, stressed that the situation demands urgent and coordinated preventive action.
Consequently, the Bishop of Wukari Diocese, Most Rev. Mark Maigida Nzukwein, has directed deans, priests, and consecrated persons in affected areas to intensify sensitisation efforts and ensure that parishioners adopt necessary safety measures.
He further urged church leaders to proactively engage security agencies within their jurisdictions to reinforce surveillance and operational readiness, warning that failure to act swiftly could precipitate a humanitarian crisis of significant proportions.
The diocese concluded with a call for unity in prayer, urging the faithful to seek divine intervention for lasting peace and security across the troubled region.