Taraba State Governor, Dr Agbu Kefas, has formally placed Karim-Lamido Local Government Area under a special security regime, designating it a “Special Area of Security Concern.”
The move comes against the backdrop of sustained violence and worsening insecurity affecting communities across the local council.
The proclamation was announced on Friday, the 2nd of January, 2026, in Jalingo through Executive Order No. 1 of 2026, a directive aimed at restoring order, safeguarding lives and property, and stabilising the environment for economic and social activities in the area.
A statement from the state government said the decision followed repeated incidents of communal unrest, bandit-related attacks, and frequent clashes between farmers and herders along the Karim-Lamido corridor.
Security and government assessments reportedly show that the situation in Karim-Lamido poses a grave risk not only to residents of the local government but also to the broader peace and development of Taraba State.
In recent years, the area has endured sustained security challenges, including assaults on civilians and security operatives, widespread destruction of farmland and property, and the forced displacement of many residents. The crisis escalated again in 2025, when renewed attacks claimed several lives, among them soldiers deployed to maintain peace.
With the new security status, the state government is authorised to roll out stricter measures, including the deployment of additional security forces to volatile areas. Community vigilantes, hunters, and local defence groups are also to be formally registered and coordinated under the supervision of the Taraba State Marshals Security Guard.
Governor Kefas has further stepped up high-level security engagements and consultations with relevant stakeholders to confront the deeper drivers of the unrest, such as unemployment, land ownership disputes, and long-standing intercommunal tensions.
READ ALSO: Taraba Police Issue Security Mandate for Festive Charity Events, Public Giveaways
Complementing the security response, the administration has set up a Judicial Commission of Inquiry to probe the origins of the Karim-Lamido crisis. The panel will examine allegations of instigation, destruction of property, and loss of lives, and is expected to recommend pathways for accountability, reconciliation, and sustainable peace.
Additionally, specialised committees on land use and conflict prevention have been constituted to tackle recurring land disputes and minimise resource-based conflicts.
Reaffirming his administration’s stance, Governor Kefas stressed that violence will not be condoned under any guise. He called on residents to work closely with security agencies, observe lawful directives, and actively participate in community-driven peace efforts.
Authorities say the declaration is intended to channel increased attention and resources to Karim-Lamido, blending security enforcement with judicial and social interventions to restore stability and support the safe return of displaced persons.