Hope Restored: Catholic Diocese of Yola and MCC Support 339 Conflict-Affected Families in Lamurde

 Yola, Adamawa - November 29 2025

In a joint humanitarian initiative, the Catholic Diocese of Yola and the Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) have delivered critical support to 339 households impacted by the recent Bachama-Chobo clashes in Lamurde LGA. This partnership demonstrates a shared commitment to providing relief and fostering stability for the affected communities in Adamawa State.

Photo: Titus Innocent Isinga

The distribution took place on November 28, 2025, at St. Paul’s Parish Lafiya and St. Michael’s Parish Gyawana, led by the Catholic Bishop of Yola, Most Rev. Dr. Stephen Dami Mamza. The event was part of the JDPC EPRT humanitarian project, which aims to support vulnerable households impacted by conflict.

For many recipients, the relief items could not have come at a better time. Families displaced and devastated by the crisis received essential food supplies, cooking items, hygiene materials, and other non-food essentials. These items helped address immediate needs—especially for households that had lost homes, property, and livelihoods.

The distribution process was well-coordinated, transparent, and peaceful, ensuring that the most affected families were prioritized.

Some of the most touching moments came from the beneficiaries themselves. One recipient, Mrs. Mercy James, shared her emotional story:

“The crisis destroyed everything we had. We lost our homes and means of survival. This support gives us hope again and shows that we are not forgotten in our suffering.”

Her words echoed the feelings of many who have struggled to rebuild their lives after the violent clashes.

Beyond material support, the event also created a space for healing and reconciliation. Beneficiaries from both the Bachama and Chobo communities made public commitments to embrace peace, forgive past grievances, and rebuild trust across ethnic lines.

Bishop Mamza reinforced this message in his address, urging both communities to reject violence:

“Crisis is never the answer. Violence brings no lasting benefit. We must work together to end this cycle of hate and revenge.”

The intervention by the Catholic Diocese of Yola and MCC did more than distribute items. It helped restore dignity, sparked meaningful conversations about peace, and reassured families that they were not alone in their struggles.

As communities in Lamurde continue to rebuild, this humanitarian gesture stands as a reminder that compassion, unity, and peacebuilding remain vital tools in healing the wounds of conflict.

Titus Innocent Isinga, Hicia News