Traders dealing in cutlasses, knives and swords in Taraba State said they are recording brisk business as insecurity resurfaces in parts of the state, prompting many residents to purchase the items for self-defence.
The surge in demand comes amid a fresh wave of attacks and killings, particularly in communities across the southern part of the state, where residents say they are increasingly concerned about their safety at home and on their farms.
Findings indicate that at least 10 people have been killed in separate attacks over the past five days, while several properties have also been destroyed.
Among the affected communities is Sai, located along the Taraba-Benue border, where six people were reportedly killed during an attack on the night of Tuesday, June 30, 2026. Three more people were also reportedly killed in another incident on Friday.
Residents of the affected communities alleged that the attacks were carried out by armed Fulani assailants. Fearing further violence, many locals have turned to buying cutlasses, knives and swords, saying the items are intended for personal protection while working on their farms and in their homes.
In response to the deteriorating security situation, Governor Agbu Kefas recently convened security summits across Taraba’s three senatorial districts. The meetings focused on strengthening peace, promoting dialogue among communities and finding lasting solutions to the recurring violence.
Speaking with our correspondent, a trader, Abubakar Yusuf, who sells cutlasses, knives and swords, said demand for the items has risen sharply in recent weeks.
According to him, the tools come in different categories and prices, with many residents purchasing them in large quantities.
“People prefer to buy Cutlasses and Knives to use for safe protection against unexpected attacks both at farm and at home.»
“The Cutlass we use to sell at N6500 we are now selling at N8000, the locals are truly buying in large quantities,” Abubakar stated
