“We Give What We Can, But the Need Is Great” – JDPC Program Manager Speaks on Relief Outreach in Taraba State
By Hilary John
Mr Michael Patrick
In the wake of recurring farmer-herder conflicts that have displaced communities across Taraba State, the Justice, Development and Peace Commission (JDPC) of the Catholic Diocese of Jalingo has stepped in to provide humanitarian assistance.
In this exclusive interview with Echo Express, Mr Michael Patrick, JDPC’s Program Manager, discuss the organization’s relief efforts, the challenges on ground and calls for peace and greater support.
Echo Express: Can you give us an overview of JDPC’s activities?
Michael Patrick: JDPC is the humanitarian and social justice arm of the Catholic Church. Our core mandate is to assist the underprivileged, especially during emergencies. When crises strike and people are displaced, the Church shares in their pains.
For this intervention, we began by engaging community leaders to conduct needs assessments. Unfortunately, financial constraints limited what we could provide. Still, we offered what resources we had to ease their suffering.
Echo Express: Why did JDPC prioritize Lau/Karim-Lamido in this outreach?
Michael Patrick: This intervention targeted internally displaced persons (IDPs) from Karim Lamido Local Government Area, who are currently taking refuge in Lau. The community has been heavily affected by the farmer-herder conflict, forcing families to abandon their ancestral homes without notice.
Most of the victims are farmers who lost both homes and harvests. Having seen the devastation displacement causes, we felt compelled to respond, even if our support was modest.
Echo Express: How does this initiative align with JDPC’s broader mission in Taraba State?
Michael Patrick: JDPC operates under several thematic pillars: peace building, human rights advocacy, youth and women empowerment, and good governance. Livelihood support and humanitarian outreach fall directly within this mission. What we are doing in Lau/Karim-Lamido reflects our wider goal—upholding human dignity and supporting vulnerable communities, regardless of religion or background.
Echo Express: What challenges did you encounter in mobilizing and delivering aid?
Michael Patrick: Mobilization itself went smoothly. With the help of Rev. Fr. Jediel John, Parish Priest in Karim Lamido, we were able to identify actual victims and understand their needs. His presence on the ground was valuable.
The main challenge was financial. The demand far outweighed our resources. Imagine trying to serve hundreds of families with only a few supplies—it’s heartbreaking. Many had lost everything: homes, savings, and food reserves. While we did what we could, the needs remain overwhelming.
Echo Express : JDPC incorporate spiritual support into its aid programs?
Michael Patrick: In a sense, yes. JDPC is a Catholic institution, but we operate in an inclusive and non-discriminatory way. Our services are open to Christians, Muslims, and traditionalists alike.
At the same time, we encourage beneficiaries to hold firmly to their faith, whatever it may be. Spiritual grounding is crucial for inner healing, even as we address physical needs.
Echo Express: Are there sustainability plans for continued support to these communities?
Michael Patrick: Not at the moment. This was an emergency intervention. Our greatest hope is that peace will return soon so families can go back to their ancestral lands. If displacement becomes prolonged, then we will explore more structured, long-term support mechanisms.
Echo Express: What message would you like to share with communities caught in these conflicts?
Michael Patrick: Conflict benefits no one, we call on all Communities involved to sheath their sword and embrace peace for the development of the Communities and the state as a whole.
Echo Express: How do you assess the impact of this outreach?
Michael Patrick: It may not have been massive, but its impact was visible. The relief on people’s faces as they received food and clothing—knowing they had something to eat and wear—was profound. That’s why we call it “relief.”
We have also reported the situation to our partners, and we hope additional support will follow. Our doors remain open for further collaboration.
Echo Express: What advice do you have for philanthropists, NGOs, and government agencies?
Michael Patrick: First, realize that displacement can happen to anyone. No one is immune. Philanthropists and well-meaning individuals should extend support, even if small. Some IDPs are sleeping on bare floors, without even soap to bathe.
Secondly, don’t remain silent. Speak out and advocate for peace. As for the government, more must be done. Policies often look good on paper but fail in practice. Vulnerable populations rarely receive aid as intended. Greater transparency and accountability in relief distribution are essential.
Final Thoughts
In a region still struggling with conflict and humanitarian crises, JDPC’s efforts stand as a beacon of hope. Their resources may be limited, but their commitment to human dignity is unwavering. Mr. Patrick’s message resonates deeply: peace is the only way forward—and it requires everyone’s participation.
