Taraba: The Catholic Diocese of Wukari in Nigeria’s Taraba State has revealed the scale of violence and destruction faced by Christians in the region over the past nine months. According to a report released by the diocese, more than 100 people have been killed, 217 churches destroyed, and nearly 100,000 residents displaced since September 2025 due to repeated attacks by armed groups.
The alarming figures were shared by Bishop Mark Nzukwein after the third General Assembly of bishops held last Saturday. He said the attacks have mainly affected southern Taraba, especially the local government areas of Takum and Donga, along with the Yangtu region.
The bishop described the situation as one of the most serious humanitarian and security crises the diocese has ever experienced. According to diocesan records, more than 98,000 people, including 16 priests, have already been forced to flee their homes because of the ongoing violence. Many families are now living in temporary shelters and struggling to survive without proper food, healthcare, or education.
The report also stated that eight priests’ residences were completely destroyed during the attacks. Entire Christian communities have reportedly been abandoned after armed groups targeted villages, homes, and places of worship. The destruction of 217 churches has deeply affected the faith life of local Catholics and other Christian communities who have lost not only their homes but also their centers of prayer and support.
Bishop Nzukwein warned that land grabbing has become a growing concern in the region. He said criminals are occupying ancestral lands belonging to displaced families who are unable to return because of insecurity. The bishop stressed that many people fear losing their property permanently if urgent action is not taken.
Church leaders called on the Nigerian federal government and security agencies to respond more strongly to the crisis. They urged authorities to improve security across affected communities and create conditions that would allow displaced people to safely return to their homes and rebuild their lives.
The diocese also appealed to humanitarian organizations and the international community for support for victims who continue to suffer from the effects of violence and displacement. Local Church leaders said many communities remain without basic needs and continue to live in fear of further attacks.
Nigeria has for years faced serious security challenges from armed groups, bandits, and extremist violence, especially in several northern and central regions of the country. Christian communities in particular have frequently reported attacks on villages, churches, and clergy members. Human rights organizations and Church groups have repeatedly raised concerns about increasing anti Christian persecution and insecurity in many parts of the country.
Despite the suffering, Church leaders in Wukari said they remain committed to supporting affected families and encouraging hope among communities devastated by violence.