Deadly Assault on Tiv Settlement in Taraba State
Suspected armed herders launched a violent attack on the Tiv community in Taraba State, resulting in the tragic deaths of three individuals. The incident occurred in Tse Bawa, a village located within the Chanchanji Ward of Takum Local Government Area. This assault has intensified fears among local residents regarding the persistent insecurity plaguing Tiv settlements across the region.
Details of the Friday Afternoon Attack
The gunmen stormed the community on Friday afternoon, January 30, 2026, firing sporadically and creating a state of panic among villagers. Eyewitness accounts describe the attack as sudden and unprovoked, forcing many residents to flee into nearby bushes for safety. During the chaos, houses and farmlands were left deserted as people scrambled to escape the violence.
The victims have been identified as Faasema Alibo, Mr. Mfavega, and an elderly man from the neighboring Chanwa community. Their deaths have left the community in mourning and heightened concerns about the safety of rural inhabitants in Taraba State.
Community Reactions and Calls for Action
Residents expressed deep fear and frustration over what they describe as repeated attacks on Tiv settlements in the area. Community members lamented the continued loss of lives and called on the Taraba State Government and security agencies to take immediate action. Key demands include:
- Urgent deployment of additional security personnel to the region
- Enhanced protection for vulnerable rural communities
- Measures to prevent further bloodshed and restore peace
As of press time, security agencies had not issued an official statement regarding the incident. The lack of immediate response has further exacerbated anxieties among local populations who feel increasingly unprotected.
Broader Implications for Rural Security
This attack underscores the ongoing security challenges facing rural communities in Taraba State, particularly Tiv settlements that have experienced multiple assaults. The incident raises critical questions about:
- The effectiveness of current security measures in remote areas
- The need for improved intelligence gathering and rapid response mechanisms
- Long-term strategies to address communal conflicts and protect civilian lives
Community leaders emphasize that without decisive intervention from both state and federal authorities, such attacks may continue, threatening the stability and livelihoods of rural populations across Taraba State.
