The devastating aftermath of a deadly communal clash in Adamawa State continues to unfold, leaving a trail of trauma, displacement, and heartbreaking separations. In the wake of the violence that erupted in Lamurde, survivors are grappling with loss and an agonizing uncertainty over the fate of their loved ones.
A Father's Agonizing Search
Among the most vulnerable victims is Mr. Alfred Pwanadi, a disabled man from the Wadukku community. Speaking to our correspondent, Pwanadi revealed the depth of his despair, having spent seven days with no knowledge of his wife and children's whereabouts. "I have been searching for my wife and children for the past 7 days now. I have not found them, nor heard or seen any trace of them," he lamented.
He recounted how attackers targeted his community, forcing his family to flee for their lives. "My house was burnt, including everything I have. My wife and children all ran for safety because the attackers were carrying women and children away, and since that day to date, I have not set my eyes on my family," Pwanadi explained. His situation is compounded by his physical condition, as he has no hands and relies entirely on his family for care and feeding.
Wandering in Desperation and Exhaustion
Driven by hope and desperation, Pwanadi embarked on a painful journey between Numan and Demsa in Adamawa State, following leads that ultimately led nowhere. The search left him physically drained and without sustenance. "I was tired and hungry, I lay down to sleep, and I spent 7 days there without food or water," he said, describing his refuge at a local pavilion.
His fortune changed only after he sought help at a nearby church. A woman cleaning there alerted neighbors, who provided him with clothing and money for transport back to Lamurde. This act of kindness offered a brief respite, but it did nothing to alleviate the core of his suffering—the unknown fate of his family.
A Plea for Help Amid Widespread Trauma
The Lamurde communal crisis, which occurred on December 8, has left many in a similar state of anguish. The violence erupted shortly after State Governor Ahmadu Fintiri convened a security meeting aimed at brokering peace, highlighting the fragile nature of the situation.
Pwanadi's story is not isolated. He emphasized that many others are living with the same terrifying uncertainty, some already fearing the worst. "I am not the only person in this kind of condition who doesn't know the whereabouts of his or her family," he stated. The psychological toll is immense, with survivors waking up to the reality of lost family members, a pain he describes as everlasting.
In a heartfelt appeal, Pwanadi called for immediate intervention. "I am pleading for help from all areas, the government, community leaders, friends, and non-governmental organisations to come to our aid... We need help and support at this time." His plea underscores the urgent need for humanitarian assistance, family tracing services, and sustained peacebuilding efforts in the region to prevent further suffering.
