Southern Conference of United Methodist Church Declares Crisis Over Herders’ Activities, Calls for State of Emergency.

By Keke,November 1,2025.

The leadership of the Southern Conference of the United Methodist Church (SCUMC) has raised the alarm over the escalating activities of herders in Taraba State, calling on both the state and federal governments to declare a state of emergency to curb the menace.

Addressing Journalists at UMC Bishop's Court,Lankaviri through the Dean of Cabinet, Rev. Dr. Philip Micah Dopah (FIMA, JP), the Church described the situation as a “humanitarian crisis” that has devastated farmlands and threatened the livelihoods of many of its members across several local government areas.

According to Reverend Dr Philip Micah Dopah district superintendents from Jalingo, Iware, Kannyana, Taraba South, Kam, Lau Central, Yugorobi, and Danjateri have reported increasing incidents of herders grazing indiscriminately on farmlands, particularly on Sundays when Christian farmers are attending worship services.

“This situation is nothing short of a crisis. Our members in Lau, Bali, Gashaka, Ardo Kola, and Gassol Local Government Areas are facing unimaginable hardships,” the statement read. “The freedom of these herders to graze on private farms without regard for the law or the livelihood of our farmers is a direct threat to food security and the economic stability of our communities.”

The Church disclosed that more than 50 members have had their farms destroyed, leaving many without means of sustenance. It urged the government to urgently deploy security operatives to protect farmers and their farmlands, as well as provide compensation to affected victims.

Rev. Dopah also appealed to political stakeholders and traditional rulers to take proactive measures to resolve the conflict and safeguard the rights of all citizens.

“The Church will not remain silent in the face of injustice,” he declared. “We stand with our members and all affected farmers, advocating for their rights and livelihoods. Together, we can find a solution that promotes peace, security, and prosperity for all.”

The Church further called on its members and the wider community to remain vigilant, protect their farms, and continue to pray for peace and divine intervention in the crisis.

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