Panic erupted in parts of Adamawa State yesterday as heavily armed Chobo-speaking militias from neighboring Gombe State joined local factions to launch coordinated attacks on Bachama communities in Lamurde Local Government Area. Dozens are feared dead.
According to local sources, the attackers advanced from creeks bordering Gombe, overrunning settlements along the western axis, including Tingno, Waduku, and two other villages. “They’ve burnt Waduku and Tingno to ashes,” a resident said. “Our youths mobilized quickly to prevent them from reaching Rigange.” Another resident confirmed that although the assailants attempted to push toward Lamurde town, the LGA headquarters, they were repelled.
The attacks came just days after Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri brokered a fragile peace agreement between the warring Chobo and Bachama groups, Dr. Jamila Suleiman, Executive Vice Chairperson of the Adamawa State Peace Commission, noted.
In response, Governor Fintiri imposed a 24-hour curfew on Lamurde LGA. Police spokesperson SP Suleiman Nguroje said additional tactical units have been deployed to enforce the curfew and maintain order. “Residents, especially those within Lamurde, are advised to stay indoors to prevent further breakdown of law and order,” Nguroje stated. He also assured that security forces would act within the law while striving to minimize loss of life.
