Gunmen have attacked returning Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Taraba state on Wednesday, killing 17 people and injuring eight others.
According to community members, the gunmen, believed to be Jukun militia, stormed Tse Ajogo, Wukari local government area of the state, around 6 a.m., opening fire on residents and recently resettled IDPs.
Seven houses were also razed during the attack while an unspecified number of villagers remained missing as of Thursday.
Residents said the coordinated attack targeted families who had only recently returned after months of displacement, addding that the incident marks the second time in two months that returning IDPs in Tse Ajogo have come under attack.
Witnesses said the assailants were heavily armed and acting with precision, suggesting a planned effort to derail resettlement in the area.
Authorities have urged residents to maintain heightened vigilance and promptly report suspicious movements.
Community leaders also called for sustained security presence, warning that surrounding Tiv settlements remain exposed to further violence.
Efforts are ongoing to track the attackers and restore calm, while community members continue to offer prayers for peace to return to the area.
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