BACHAMA–CHOBO COMMUNAL CRISIS: Catholic Diocese of Yola Brings Hope to Displaced Families in Lafiya

Lafiya- Lamurde, Adamawa, January 9, 2026

Tears of joy and gratitude filled the air as the Catholic Diocese of Yola reached out to victims of the protracted Bachama–Chobo communal crisis in Lafiya, Lamurde Local Government Area of Adamawa State. For many families who have lost homes, farmlands, and loved ones, the relief materials are not just a stopgap for their immediate needs, but also a reminder that they have not been forgotten.

In its sustained effort to ease the suffering caused by the crisis, the Diocese, through the Justice Development and Peace Commission (JDPC), with the support of the Mennonite Central Committee (MCC), distributed food and non-food items to over 350 vulnerable households. This marked the second phase of the humanitarian intervention.

Addressing beneficiaries in the ongoing effort to alleviate the suffering caused by the crisis, the Diocese, through the Justice, Development, aries during the distribution, the Catholic Bishop of Yola Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Stephen Dami Mamza, represented by the JDPC Coordinator, Rev. Fr. Maurice Kwairanga, expressed deep sorrow over the continued violence tearing the communities apart. He lamented that the Bachama and Chobo people are bound by a common Christian faith, yet divided by conflict that continues to destroy lives and deepen hardship.

With a strong appeal for peace, the Bishop urged both communities to sheathe their swords, forgive one another, and choose reconciliation over revenge, stressing that no amount of violence can heal past wounds.

With the delivery of essential aid, smiles gradually reappeared on exhausted faces, serving as silent witnesses to resilience. The Catholic Diocese of Yola affirmed its unwavering commitment to supporting the afflicted populations, emphasizing not just relief but also persistent efforts to promote peace, justice, and sustainable coexistence.

Titus Innocent Isinga, Hicia News