Taraba IDPs Protest Seven Years of Displacement, Seek Government Intervention for Safe Return
Story: written by Zara April 2,2026
Displaced Tiv Christians from Taraba State have taken to the streets in a peaceful protest, calling for urgent government action after spending seven years in internally displaced persons (IDP) camps.
The protesters, mainly farmers from Wukari Local Government Area, appealed to both the Federal Government and international bodies to help secure their return to their ancestral homes, citing worsening hardship and loss of livelihoods since their displacement in 2019.
Speaking on behalf of the group, their leader, Terhile Ahur, accused local authorities of failing to support their reintegration and protect their rights. He claimed that over 150,000 people have been displaced from the area, many of whom are now taking refuge in neighbouring Benue State.
Ahur also alleged that the conflict has led to the destruction of numerous churches, schools, and healthcare facilities, further worsening the humanitarian crisis in affected communities.
According to him, the violence began as a communal clash between Tiv and Jukun groups in 2019 in Kente village but has since escalated into targeted attacks that have forced many Tiv Christians from their homes.
He expressed concern that repeated peace efforts have failed, blaming what he described as a lack of commitment from relevant authorities. He also raised alarm over claims that displaced Tiv people are being labeled as “settlers” despite their longstanding presence and contributions to the region.
Ahur further alleged that ancestral lands belonging to displaced families have been taken over and redistributed, while the presence of security forces has not helped facilitate their return, but instead restricted access to their communities.
The group called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene by ensuring their safe return, improving security measures, and providing humanitarian support. They also urged the international community to pay attention to their situation and help address what they described as serious human rights concerns.
