Gunmen attack Taraba communities, kill three

Suspected gunmen on Wednesday attacked Akinde, Tse Yongo, Tse Adem and Tse Ahikyegh Communities in Donga local government area of Taraba, killing three people while many residents sustained various gunshot injuries.

A kindred head of Ugondo, Zaki Uma Ugondo, told journalists on the phone that the attack was more like a joint attack by suspected military men and Jukun militia.

Zaki Ugondo alleged that the attackers, many of whom were in military uniform, also rolled on over 30 military motorcycles and attacked the villages.

“They came on over 30 military motorcycles while many of them were in military uniform. At first when villagers saw them, they thought the army were coming for good, not knowing that they were coming with our killers. They came and quickly opened fire on the villagers.

“They first invaded Akinde before proceeding to Tse Yongo, Tse Adem and Tse Ahikyegh Communities. They came through Wukari and invaded the Communities. They killed Luper Unongo, Tony Yongo and Gerigori Akinde, while many others who sustained gunshot injuries are currently receiving treatment at different hospitals,” Zaki Ugondo narrated.

But when contacted, Lt. Olabodunde Oni, the Public Relations Officer for the 6 Brigade of the Nigerian Army Jalingo, denied the military involvement in the attack.

Oni noted that the army’s presence in the state was to maintain peace, and not to create tension.

“We got the report of the attack on four Communities in Donga local, but I wish to inform you that the army were not among the attackers. The army are only here to ensure peace, and not to participate in any attack against innocent citizens,” Oni clarified.