In taraba;22 killed in crises between Tiv and jukun

At least 22 persons are feared killed in fresh

attacks between ethnic Jukun and Tiv

communities of Wukari local government area

in southern Taraba State, residents and local

officials have said.

The two communities have been at war in the

last three weeks, resulting in the loss of lives

and property.

Witnesses said a Tiv militia stormed Wukari’s

suburbs around 7 p.m on Friday.

A resident, Bwacha David, said the attackers

who were over 200 caught the villagers

unaware.

Mr David said the attackers set many houses

on fire. ‘’They killed more than 10 persons

and burnt many houses,” he said.

The chairman of the local government, Adi

Daniel, confirmed the attack.

“We just woke up with another fresh attack

by suspected Tiv militias who struck at the

suburbs of Wukari. We are being provoked

now to retaliate because we cannot keep

silent while people continue to attack us.

‘’This is the eighth attack on us by Tiv militias

in the recent time. Over 22 people were killed

and we didn’t kill even an insect.

‘’And today’s attack is coming after last

Monday’s peace meeting,’’ the local

government boss said.

However, Orbee Uchiv, a Tiv leader, alleged

that Jukun militia first attacked the Tiv.

‘’On Monday, the Deputy Governors of Taraba

and Benue met together with the Aku Uka

and Tor Tiv. The political and traditional

leaders sued for peace.

‘’Unfortunately, in the wee hours of Tuesday,

Vaase, a border town was attacked and more

than seven people were killed again. On the

night of Wednesday, Tse Kaakigh village was

completely razed. The security agencies

visited the place to assess the level of

destruction.

“Last night, Ikyaior village came under attack.

In all these attacks, it was claimed the Fulani

were the ones attacking the Tiv. We are

confused.

“Just yesterday, they (Jukuns) killed a nursing

mother at the suburb of Wukari and we are

being pushed to the wall.

“The Federal government should urgently step

in to restore peace,’’ he said.

Police spokesperson in the state, David Misal,

confirmed the attacks but could not give

details.

“I was called by some residents and informed

me about the attack. But I am yet to be

briefed by the DPO or area command, so I

cannot speak on the casualties, and presently

I am in church for Easter,” Mr Misal said.