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Grief and alarm have gripped communities in Taraba State following reports of a devastating coordinated attack that claimed the lives of no fewer than 70 Tiv residents in Chanchangiji Council Ward of Takum Local Government Area. The incident, detailed by sources within the affected areas and shared through BENUE info-pedia and related platforms, has also left widespread destruction, including the alleged vandalism of about 35 churches, the razing of homes, and the loss of significant property.
Community leaders released a partial list of victims, identifying dozens of individuals—men, women, and at least one Christian cleric—among those feared killed. Names appearing on the list include Aondona Gia, Terngu Gia, Usha Tumberee, Tyolumun Daida, Terzungungwa Tilinga, Tordue Toryilin, Ornan Orgen, Mgbekenger Sawauwa, Zunguor Akigh, Mama Ageaor Kpaor, and many others, extending to figures such as Terlumun Apetimin, Jimeshin Mbaume, Orera Lorhom, Abraham Anyoho, and Mvrevve Akombo, among additional names still being compiled.
Eyewitness accounts described the assaults as simultaneous strikes across several communities, catching residents off guard and resulting in heavy casualties. Many survivors fled for safety, leaving behind scenes of extensive devastation. One resident, Luper Mulega, was reportedly abducted during the violence, adding to the growing list of concerns.
The scale of the attack has intensified tensions in the region, with survivors recounting harrowing experiences of loss and displacement. Sources emphasized that the violence targeted civilian populations, including places of worship, in what appears to have been a premeditated and widespread operation.
In response to the tragedy, residents and community stakeholders have urgently appealed to the Taraba State Government and relevant security agencies to immediately deploy adequate personnel to the troubled areas. The call seeks to prevent any further loss of lives, protect remaining residents, and restore calm to the affected wards.
As of the latest updates, no official statement or confirmation had been issued by the Taraba State Police Command or the state government regarding the incident, leaving many questions unanswered amid rising fears of escalation.
The reported killings and destruction have once again spotlighted the persistent security challenges in parts of Taraba State, particularly in border communities where inter-communal tensions and armed clashes have historically claimed numerous lives. As more details emerge, attention remains focused on the urgent need for decisive intervention to safeguard vulnerable populations and promote lasting peace in the region.
