By Newspointer News Desk Jalingo – January 11, 2026
Fresh violence has erupted in Donga Local Government Area of Taraba State following a deadly attack on Akete Ward, in which the councillor representing the ward and 10 other persons were reportedly killed, raising fresh concerns over security lapses and the persistence of unresolved communal tensions in the area.
Investigations by NEWSPOINTER revealed that the attack occurred late Tuesday night when armed assailants reportedly stormed Akete and nearby settlements, operating for several hours with little resistance. Residents said the attackers moved from house to house, sparking panic and forcing many villagers to flee into surrounding bushes for safety.
The killing of the Akete Ward councillor has added a political dimension to the crisis, prompting questions about whether the attack was targeted or linked to broader communal or reprisal violence. Community sources disclosed that tensions had been simmering in the area for weeks, following disagreements over land ownership and local boundary claims, despite earlier peace interventions.
Further findings indicate that several houses were burnt during the attack, while survivors accused security agencies of slow response, alleging that distress calls were made before the situation escalated. Some residents also claimed that similar warning signs had been ignored, allowing the crisis to degenerate into deadly violence.
Confirming the incident, the Taraba State Police Command said the councillor and 10 others lost their lives, adding that tactical teams had been deployed to Donga LGA to restore calm. The police said investigations were ongoing to identify those behind the attack and determine the motive, assuring that no effort would be spared in bringing the perpetrators to justice.
The Taraba State Government, in a statement, condemned the killings, describing them as a senseless assault on peace and democratic institutions at the grassroots. The government expressed condolences to the families of the victims and directed security agencies to intensify patrols in flashpoint communities.
Meanwhile, traditional rulers and civil society groups have called for an independent probe into the incident, urging authorities to go beyond routine condemnations and address the root causes of recurring violence in Donga LGA to prevent further bloodshed.
