Over 150,000 Tiv speaking people displaced in Taraba State, as IDPs protest in Benue

By Johnson Arua

Tiv speaking Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) from Wukari Local Government Area, LGA, of Taraba State have held a peaceful protest, appealing for assistance to return to their ancestral homes after seven years in displacement.

The demonstration, organized by the Tiv Wukari IDP Leadership Forum, took place in Kyado, Ukum Local Government Area, Benue State.

Some of the angry protesters had placards with inscriptions like "we want to return home," "it has been seven years of displacement," 'we are Taraba indigenes," among others.

In a statement to the press, IDP leaders Hon. Terhile Ahur and Mr. Amos Igba thanked God, local traditional leaders, clergy, and community members in Benue for their support since the group was displaced in April 2019 following clashes in Kente Village, Wukari LGA.

The leaders reported that over 150,000 Tiv people remain displaced, with many taking refuge in Benue State and other areas of Taraba. They highlighted the destruction of homes, schools, churches, and health facilities during the crisis and called for urgent measures to enable a safe and sustainable return to their communities.

The IDP leaders traced the historical presence of Tiv people in Wukari, noting the longstanding connection of their community to the area.

They emphasized the importance of returning to their homes and farms to restore normal life, including participating in the 2027 general elections.

As part of their demands, the IDPs requested provision of security for safe return to ancestral homes. Support in the form of relief materials for returnees. And Federal oversight to ensure peaceful reintegration into their communities.

The leaders concluded by appealing to the federal government and relevant authorities to facilitate their return and ensure their rights are protected, expressing hope that ongoing dialogue and support would allow the displaced community to rebuild their lives.