17 Persons Killed, Others Missing As Militias Ambush Returning IDPs In Taraba

No fewer than 17 people have been killed and eight others injured after armed men suspected to be militias launched a deadly attack on returning Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Tse Ajogo village, Wukari Local Government Area of Taraba State.

The attack, which occurred at about 6 a.m. on Wednesday, 10 December 2025.

SaharaReporters gathered that the gunmen stormed the village in a coordinated operation, shooting indiscriminately at residents and vulnerable IDPs who had only recently begun returning home after months of displacement.

Meanwhile, several villagers are still reportedly missing, while seven houses were razed during the attack.

A security expert, Zagazola Makama, confirmed the incident on Thursday, describing it as the second assault on returning IDPs in Tse Ajogo within two months.  

He said the attackers appeared heavily armed, strategic, and determined to inflict maximum casualties, adding that their operation was aimed at disrupting ongoing resettlement efforts.

Tse Ajogo, located about four kilometres from Rafin Kada town, has long been considered highly vulnerable due to repeated incursions by armed militia groups.

Security operatives have begun efforts to track down the perpetrators, while authorities have called for increased vigilance across affected communities. 

Troops have also been urged to intensify patrols along major routes to forestall further attacks.

Local leaders have advised residents —particularly Tiv communities in the area — to remain cautious and promptly report suspicious movements to security agencies.