By Terna Chikpa, Jalingo
Residents of Ikyaior and Jendekyura communities in Wukari Local Government Area of Taraba State have raised concern over rising banditry activities in the area, particularly along the Chiina–Ikyaior axis of the Chinkai–Lafia Road, despite the presence of multiple security checkpoints.
According to the residents, between October 2025 and date, no fewer than 14 persons have been attacked and killed in the area, while others escaped with their motorcycles and other valuables forcefully taken by the attackers.
Those reportedly killed include Mr. Agabuter Terngohor, Mr. Dongu Aondongu, Tsebo Terwase, Mr. Tyover Bumlum, Mr. Tyodoo Verior, Mr. Mnyianga Iorkyaa, Clement Tyona, Dooter Kyeemum, Mtindi Akaa, Veronica Tsenongu, Tordoo Philip, Tsenongu Mvendaga, Tyohemba Avee, and Mson Mesuega.
The residents alleged that the attacks were being perpetrated by a suspected bandit, Angyu Yavini, and members of his group.
In a press statement jointly signed by community leaders, Chief Tyokyaa Felix and David Azuana, the communities alleged that the suspect’s camp is located a few kilometres away from the usual point of attack. They called on the Taraba State and Federal Governments to take urgent action to ensure the safety of residents and commuters.
“Between October 2025 and date, 14 people from our communities have been attacked by a suspected bandit, Angyu Yavini, along the newly flagged-off Chinkai–Lafia Road, particularly the Chiina–Ikyaior axis, despite heavy security presence,” the statement read.
“Just yesterday and today, the group allegedly attacked and snatched three motorcycles belonging to our youths at the same location.
“There are about eight security points along the road, including three military checkpoints, yet these attacks continue without challenge.
“For over three months, we have lived under constant fear of attacks along this corridor. The attackers allegedly operate mostly between 9:00 p.m. and 1:00 a.m., when security operatives are no longer visible. Victims are sometimes kidnapped, killed, or dispossessed of their motorcycles.
“The most worrisome aspect of these attacks is that they appear to target a particular ethnic group, which we fear could reignite the Jukun–Tiv crisis in the area.”
The community leaders further lamented that the alleged activities have been reported severally to security agencies without decisive action.
They warned that failure to address the situation could lead to disruption of traffic along the road, as commuters may abandon the route out of fear of kidnapping or death, thereby undermining the developmental purpose of the road project.
“This silence and perceived inaction are emboldening criminals and undermining the genuine efforts of the Taraba State Government to restore safety and confidence along this critical road,” the statement added.
They called on relevant authorities to ensure the immediate arrest of the suspect to liberate both residents and commuters.
Meanwhile, PERISCOPE NIGERIA reports that the 6 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Jalingo, has on several occasions acknowledged the growing banditry activities along the road and has rescued some kidnapped victims in the area.
