At least 70 members of the predominantly Christian Tiv ethnic group are feared dead following coordinated attacks on multiple communities in Chanchanji Council Ward of Takum Local Government Area, Taraba state, in northeastern Nigeria.

Local sources told Benue Info-pedia that the attacks occurred simultaneously across several villages, overwhelming residents and leaving widespread casualties. Survivors reported that homes were set ablaze, food stores destroyed, and personal belongings looted, forcing many families to flee into surrounding bushes and neighboring communities for safety.

Community leaders said at least 35 churches were vandalized during the violence. Several church buildings were reportedly damaged or burned, with religious items destroyed. Among those killed was a Christian cleric, identified as Pastor Doose Mbathembe.

According to a list released by community representatives, the victims include men, women, and elderly residents.

Those identified as 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, 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 also reported that one community member, Luper Mulega, was abducted during the attacks. His whereabouts remain unknown at the time of this posting.

Eyewitnesses described hearing gunfire and seeing armed attackers move from one settlement to another within a short period of time. Many villagers said there was no visible security presence during the assaults, leaving residents without protection as the attacks unfolded.

Following the violence, displaced families were seen seeking refuge in nearby areas, while others remained missing. Community leaders said access to some of the affected villages remained limited due to fear of further attacks.

Residents have appealed to the Taraba State Government and federal security agencies to deploy security personnel to the area and restore order. They also called for investigations into the attacks and measures to prevent further violence.

At the time of this post, no official statement had been issued by the Taraba State Government or the Nigeria Police Force regarding the reported killings, destruction of churches, or displacement of residents.