The death of two brothers, Masandi Moses Basungyu and Mikhima Moses Basungyu at their farm has thrown the once quiet Wapan Nghaku community, located within the Hospital ward of Wukari Local Council of Taraba State into confusion.

The Guardian learnt that the brothers had on Friday, April 4, 2025, left for their farm like any other day, but never returned. According to the community sources, the duo were attacked and killed by suspected militias.

The shocking incident has left their families, neighbours, and the entire Wukari community devastated. Executive Chairman of Wukari and Vice-Chairman of the Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON), Taraba State chapter, Dauda Agbu Samaila lamented that the incident has left him with a heavy heart. He said: “These were hardworking young men whose lives were cut short in the most senseless and violent way.”

According to him, he has already mobilised security agencies to investigate the incident and ensure that the attackers are brought to justice.
“We must not allow this violence to continue. Our people deserve to live in peace, to farm and raise their families without fear,” he added.

The Guardian gathered that the killings have also reignited longstanding tensions in the area, where inter-communal violence has flared up intermittently over the years.

Residents who spoke with The Guardian, recalled past attacks, including ambushes on travellers and the burning of properties. Visibly shaken by the news, the senator representing Taraba South senatorial district, Senator David Jimkuta, also condemned the attack.

Visiting the grieving families, he described the murder of the Basungyu brothers as “a heartbreaking reminder of the fragility of peace.” He continued: “This is not just a crime against two individuals—it’s an attack on the soul of Wukari.” He called on security agencies to act decisively and ensure swift justice for the deceased.

“We must build a society where conflict is not resolved through the barrel of a gun but through dialogue, understanding, and mutual respect,” he declared.

However, the death of the two brothers, has reawakened free efforts by Wukari community leaders, clergy, and civil society organisations to foster peace and reconciliation among neighbouring communities.