Fresh and disturbing reports have emerged of coordinated armed attacks on Tiv communities in Chanchanji Council Ward, the largest political ward in Taraba State, located in Takum Local Government Area.
The attacks, which reportedly occurred on Tuesday, were said to have targeted several communities, with Mbajir community identified as the worst hit. Local sources alleged that many civilians were killed during the violence, while properties and places of worship were deliberately destroyed.
The assailants were described by community members as armed Islamic Fulani militias, though security agencies are yet to officially confirm the identity of the attackers. Residents say the attacks have triggered widespread fear, displacement, and a growing humanitarian crisis across the ward.
Several churches were reportedly burnt and destroyed during the assaults. They include Living Faith Church, Barki; NKST Church, Tsehe; Roman Catholic Church, Ikyaaior in Mbajir; St. Paul Parish, Adu; St. James Catholic Church, Mbateto; Living Faith Church, Tyobaa; Living Faith Church, Ayiase; Roman Catholic Church, Atsanger; Roman Catholic Church, Chanwa; NKST Church, Ayu; Holy Ghost Church, Abong; and the Assembly of God Church, Tse Aleva.
Community leaders described the attacks as a direct assault on civilian life, religious freedom, and the cultural identity of the indigenous Tiv people in the area. They warned that the recurring pattern of violence suggests a deliberate attempt to terrorize and displace vulnerable communities.
In a situation report issued on Tuesday, Ambassador Rikwense Muri, President of the STYCOP Peace Project, called on the Federal Government, the Taraba State Government, security agencies, and emergency and humanitarian response organisations to urgently intervene.
He urged authorities to deploy adequate security personnel to the affected areas, protect vulnerable communities, provide humanitarian assistance to displaced persons, and ensure that those responsible for the attacks are identified and brought to justice.
According to the statement, any further silence, delay, or denial by authorities could embolden more violence and deepen the humanitarian crisis in the area.
As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official statement from the Taraba State Government or security agencies on the incident.
