TENSION AT WUKARI: REPORTS OF KILLINGS AND REPRISAL ATTACKS
A wave of violence has hit Wukari, Taraba State, with reports of an unconfirmed number of persons killed by a gang of militia. Eyewitnesses claim that armed youths were seen chasing and killing Tiv individuals in broad daylight at various locations, including Yam Market and Takum Junction.
The violence reportedly continued until the afternoon, with multiple sources confirming the attacks. In response to the violence, Mr. Benjamin Bako, Chairman of the Jukun Development Association of Nigeria (JDAN), issued a statement justifying the actions of the Jukun people.
Statement by Benjamin Bako, Chairman of JDAN
“The Jukun Development A
ssociation of Nigeria (JDAN) condemns the continued attack and killing of Jukun people along the Wukari/Kyaayo/Sondi/Kente road, Wukari/Zaki Biam road, and Takum/Katsina-Ala road by Tiv kidnappers and armed bandits.
We accuse those we describe as ‘Tiv criminal gangs’ of a deliberate plan to frustrate the farming season and spread fear in Jukunland. The Jukun people respond in kind to every single attack on any Jukun land, and we will never be intimidated to live in fear in our land.”
The statement highlights the ongoing tensions between the Jukun and Tiv communities in the region, with both sides accusing each other of violence and intimidation. The situation remains volatile, with concerns about further escalation and human rights abuses.
