Tiv Leaders Sound Alarm on Southern Taraba Insecurity, Cite Existential Threats
President General of the Tiv Cultural and Social Association (TCSA), James Chihi Bakah, alongside the Forum of Tiv Political Appointees, has raised serious concerns over emerging security threats targeting Tiv communities in Southern Taraba. The group addressed journalists in Jalingo, alleging that attackers may be regrouping with plans to target specific areas, including Ananum, Tor-Damisa, Peva, and Kofai Amadu in Donga and Takum local council areas.
Security Deployments Bring Temporary Calm
Despite these alarming reports, the Tiv leaders commended recent security deployments across affected communities, noting that the intervention has begun to restore a sense of calm in previously volatile regions. Bakah stated that the Tiv people welcome the efforts of the Taraba State government, emphasizing that the presence of security personnel has significantly improved the situation on the ground. He added that the deployment has deterred further attacks and renewed confidence among residents who had lived in fear for months, remarking, "Some areas that were previously tense are now experiencing relative calm."
Military Officer Calls for Urgent Federal Intervention
However, a senior military officer has called on President Bola Tinubu and the National Assembly to urgently intervene in the worsening security situation affecting Tiv communities across Southern Taraba and parts of Benue State. This appeal follows a fresh wave of attacks that have left several communities devastated, with residents reporting widespread destruction of homes, farmlands, and harvested crops. The officer, who hails from Mbajir in the Shitile area, explained that his village and neighboring communities spanning three local government areas in Southern Taraba, as well as Katsina-Ala Local Council of Benue State, have been under sustained assault over the past two weeks. According to him, coordinated attacks have forced many residents to flee their homes, highlighting the severity of the crisis.
New Guidelines Unveiled to Address Farmers-Herders Conflicts
In a related development, guidelines funded by the United Kingdom's international development arm and developed by the Hague Institute for Innovation of Law (HiiL) have been unveiled. These guidelines aim to prevent and resolve land conflicts between farmers and herders in Kaduna, Katsina, Plateau, and Benue States. The launch is part of broader efforts to sustain peace and strengthen security in these affected regions. Speaking at the event, Mariam Abba, the Operations Officer of HiiL and Guideline Lead, explained that the guidelines were developed through extensive consultations across the states involved. She clarified that the project is funded by the Strengthening Peace and Resilience in Nigeria (SPRING) programme, which covers Kaduna, Katsina, Plateau, and Benue states.
Officials Emphasize Peacebuilding Efforts
During the unveiling, Kaduna State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Sule Shuaibu (SAN), stated that the initiative aims to consolidate gains made in tackling insecurity since Governor Uba Sani took office in 2023. Additionally, Barau Emmanuel, the State Representative of SPRING, noted that the programme is designed to strengthen institutional capacity and build resilience among communities, fostering long-term stability in conflict-prone areas.
