70 Tiv feared dead, dozens of churches destroyed in renewed Taraba attack

At least 70 Tiv natives are feared to have lost their lives in a fresh outbreak of violence in Chanchanji Council Ward, Takum Local Government Area of Taraba State.

The latest attack, described as well-coordinated, reportedly swept through several settlements in the area, leaving a trail of destruction. In addition to the heavy death toll, no fewer than 35 churches were allegedly vandalised, while numerous houses were burnt and valuables destroyed.

Community sources told Benue Info-pedia that the assailants struck multiple locations at the same time, overwhelming residents and triggering mass displacement as survivors fled to safer areas.

Eyewitnesses said the magnitude of the assault has thrown the communities into fear and uncertainty.

A casualty list compiled by local leaders indicates that the victims cut across men, women and a Christian pastor. The sources also disclosed that one resident, identified as Luper Mulega, was abducted during the напад.

Those reportedly killed include Terla Tyonenge, Dajo Senga, Sonter Msugh, Fanbo Orhena, Kundushima Yaor, Verlor Tyowus, Tyowua Firgha, Apinen Ikyondo, Gwa Osaugh, Aondona Gia, Terngu Gia, Usha Tumbee, Tyolumun Daida, Terzungwa Tilinga, Tordue Toryiln, Ornan Orgen, Mgbekenger Sawua, Zunguior Akigh, Mama Ageaor Kpaor, Terzungwe Chia, Mnenge Abiadu, Msugh Gaza, Saulu Kwazan, Tyonenge Ikpughun, Igbaga Mbakuaga, Mtera Akulaan, Mary Joseph, Tornongo Kpega, Atsator Ayal, Tyoor Orya, Usenga Pevikyaa, Gbaka Kalo, Pastor Doose Mbathembe, Aperaku Ondoaver Kua Kwase Na, Aondover Kparev Ugosol, Tyoakula Atsenga, Aondosoo Shacia, Aondoakura Kurave, Gogo Atindiga, Aondonengen Apine, Aondo Ijewua, Ushahemba Kerchia, Abraham Apine, Kumater Igo, Terlumun Apetimin, Jimeshin Mbaume, Orera Lorhom, Abraham Anyoho, Angoboga Mbagbe, Vershima Orhungs, Mary Kircivir, Orlega Maughaonde, Kwaghsaanga Aniv, Emmatue Fortan, Kumaaron Aperilighin, Maaserin Alibo, Chia Atunku, Zaki Agbaibo Tetan and Mverve Akombo, among others.

Residents of the affected areas have urged the Taraba State Government and security agencies to swiftly deploy more personnel to restore calm and avert further bloodshed.

Efforts to get official confirmation proved unsuccessful, as neither the Taraba State Government nor the police had issued a statement on the incident as of the time of filing this report.