List of Tiv villages in Taraba State that were abandoned following the outbreak of violent conflict between the Jukun and Tiv ethnic groups, which began on April 1, 2019.

The original inhabitants—bona fide Tiv indigenes— representing an estimated population of over 210,000 people were forced to flee their ancestral homes due to the widespread violence and destruction.

These villages remain deserted, with many homes burnt, properties looted, and the people displaced, living in various Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps or host communities.

List of Deserted Tiv Villages in Wukari LGA

A. RAFINKADA WARD

1. Tse shisha
   2.Tse Aborgor
   3.Tse Yawe
2. Mbaadega Akaabo
3. Tor iyorshagher
4. Chia aminde
5. Iwambe Alakari
6. Tse Nyam
7. Tse Hamber
   10.Tse Alakari
8. Chia Ahange
9. Tse Kundi
10. Igbudu begha
11. Ikyaayar
12. Ihulen gbugba
13. Tse wase
14. Tse Haayongo
15. Tse Amonko
16. Tse Msaar
17. Iwev Abon
18. Tse-Atsenga
19. Tse Luka
20. Aso Azege

B. KENTE WARD

1. Sontyo
   2.Tse-Amenger
2. Sev-av
3. Tse -Tamen
4. Tse-Kum
5. Tse-Ayegher
6. Tse-Ayem
7. Tse-Avyoko
8. Tse-Mbaakaa
9. Tse-Nember
10. Mueikyuna
11. Tse-Avaan
12. Tse- Sharegh
13. Tse-Achamber
14. Tse-Inja
15. Tse-Wende
16. Gboughkya
17. Tse-Humbe
18. Tse-Sur
19. Shausu
20. Tse-Gbaa
21. Tse-Oradi
22. Tse-Teior
23. Tse-Adaa
24. Tse-Akwaya 2
25. Tse-Iorver 2
26. Tse-Leva
27. Tse-Gbyorda
28. Wachin
29. Tse-Gyô
30. Tse-Orabende
31. Tse-Tar
32. Demelu
33. Tse-Agan
34. Tse-Shausu
35. Tse-Abii
36. Tse-Ayakume
37. Tse-Adayôhôl

C. BANTAJE WARD

1. Mbishu
2. Tse Ikperen
3. Aben
4. Saamaaya
5. Tse Uyoo
6. Shakyo
7. Ayaba
8. Uyôô
9. Jingir
10. Nege
11. Tse Apa
12. Tse Ager
13. Bantaje
14. Angwan Tiv
15. Mahanga 1 Angwan Tiv
16. Mahanga 2 Angwan Tiv
17. Chediya 1 Angwan Tiv
18. Chediya 2 Angwan Tiv
19. Zendesha
20. Ugber
21. Haruna A

Tiv People in Taraba

The Tiv people are one of the largest ethnic groups in central Nigeria, with a population estimated at over seven million. Predominantly found in Benue State, substantial Tiv communities also live in Taraba, Nasarawa, and Plateau States. They are known for their rich cultural heritage, strong communal ties, and agricultural expertise. Tiv language, known as “Tiv,” is spoken across their communities and serves as a unifying factor.

Historically, the Tiv people have lived in decentralized, clan-based communities. Leadership is exercised through a council of elders, with significant respect given to age and wisdom. Their oral traditions, folktales, and dances reflect a deep sense of identity and continuity.

Tiv Migration into Taraba State

Tiv migration into Taraba State, particularly into southern LGAs like Wukari, Donga, Takum, and Ibi, occurred over many decades, notably during the colonial and early post-independence periods. Drawn by the fertile lands and peaceful surroundings, Tiv settlers established vibrant agricultural communities. This migration was primarily peaceful, driven by economic reasons—most Tiv migrants were farmers looking for arable land.

By the mid-20th century, entire villages had formed, complete with schools, churches, and local markets. The Tiv in Taraba became deeply integrated into the region’s economic and social fabric.

Cultural Identity and Traditions

The Tiv in Taraba retain their distinct identity:

• Language: The Tiv language is widely spoken in homes and churches, ensuring cultural preservation.
• Farming Practices: Known for producing yam, maize, rice, and cassava, Tiv farmers contribute significantly to Taraba’s agricultural economy.
• Social Structure: Clan lineage and communal decision-making are vital. Festivals like Kwagh-Hir (puppet theatre) and marriage rites reinforce traditional values.

Geographic Spread in Taraba

The Tiv population is concentrated in the following LGAs:

• Wukari LGA – notably in Rafinkada, Kente, and Bantaje wards.
• Donga LGA
• Takum LGA
• Ibi LGA

Dozens of Tiv villages once thrived in these areas until they were tragically deserted due to violent ethnic conflicts.

Coexistence with Other Ethnic Groups

Historically, the Tiv coexisted with neighboring groups such as the Jukun, Kuteb, and Chamba. Inter-ethnic marriages, trade partnerships, and shared cultural events were common. However, tensions over land rights, political representation, and perceived marginalization periodically disrupted these relationships.

The Jukun-Tiv Conflict Explained

The conflict between the Jukun and Tiv communities has deep historical roots, often ignited by:

• Land ownership disputes
• Political underrepresentation
• Ethnic mistrust

Since the 1990s, sporadic violence has erupted, leading to deaths, displacement, and the destruction of entire villages.

2019 Wukari Violence & Aftermath

On April 1, 2019, renewed violence between Tiv and Jukun communities in Wukari LGA escalated into a humanitarian crisis. More than 100 Tiv villages were burned or abandoned, including Tse Shisha, Tse Yawe, and Mbaadega Akaabo. Over 210,000 Tiv indigenes were displaced, most now residing in IDP camps across Benue and Nasarawa States.

This conflict not only disrupted daily life but also shattered inter-communal trust, with many homes and properties destroyed beyond repair.

Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs)

Tiv IDPs in Taraba State and neighboring areas face extreme challenges:

• Overcrowded camps
• Lack of food, clean water, and education
• High rates of trauma and depression

Organizations like Doctors Without Borders and Red Cross have intervened, but support remains limited.

Government Response and Policy

Despite repeated calls, the Taraba State Government’s response has been widely criticized for:

• Slow or no acknowledgment of Tiv settlements
• Failure to guarantee safe return
• Inadequate compensation for losses

At the federal level, appeals have been made in the National Assembly to investigate and resolve the crisis, but meaningful progress remains elusive.

Advocacy and Human Rights Issues

Activists such as Mr. Achibo Peters Achibo have become prominent voices advocating for the rights of Tiv communities in Taraba. Their efforts to speak truth to power have often been met with threats and intimidation. Civil society organizations and human rights defenders continue to demand recognition, resettlement, and justice.

Documenting the Deserted Villages

Evidence exists proving the historical and present-day existence of these villages:

• Community registers
• Satellite images
• Eyewitness accounts

A detailed list includes settlements in Rafinkada, Kente, and Bantaje, such as Tse Aborgor, Tse-Kundi, Sontyo, Tse-Achamber, Mbishu, and Ayaba. These are not empty names—they are ancestral homes.

The Struggle for Political Inclusion

Tiv communities in Taraba often feel excluded from political processes:

• Lack of elected representatives
• Exclusion from local decision-making
• Voter disenfranchisement due to displacement

This marginalization has hindered effective dialogue and reconciliation.

Current Livelihoods and Challenges

Many Tiv people have been reduced to subsistence survival:

• Farmers fear returning to fields due to security risks
• Children miss years of schooling
• Women and youth face increased vulnerability

The Role of Religion in Unity

Faith communities—especially churches—have stepped in to offer hope. Through joint prayer sessions, counseling, and peacebuilding initiatives, religious leaders strive to bridge divides and rebuild trust among ethnic groups.

Media Narratives and Public Perception

Sadly, the media has often underreported the plight of the Tiv in Taraba. However, local community journalists and advocacy groups have begun to document stories and amplify voices, changing the narrative from invisibility to visibility.

Steps Toward Reconciliation

Peace is possible. Local efforts include:

• Community-led peace talks
• Mediation by traditional rulers
• Youth and women’s dialogue platforms

Reconciliation cannot occur without official acknowledgment of past atrocities and a sincere commitment to justice.

Future Outlook for Tiv in Taraba

Despite decades of conflict and marginalization, the Tiv people in Taraba remain resilient. With fair representation, recognition of ancestral lands, and government accountability, a peaceful and inclusive future is still within reach.

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🙋‍♂️ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are there Tiv people in Taraba State?
Yes, Tiv people have lived in Taraba State for decades, especially in southern LGAs like Wukari and Donga.

2. Why were Tiv villages in Wukari abandoned?
They were deserted following violent clashes with the Jukun in 2019, which led to mass displacement and destruction.

3. What is the current situation of Tiv IDPs?
Many live in IDP camps under difficult conditions, lacking access to basic services and security.

4. Is the government helping displaced Tiv communities?
Support has been limited and inconsistent. Many Tiv leaders and activists continue to call for more decisive action.

5. How can peace be restored between Tiv and Jukun communities?
Through honest dialogue, inclusive governance, and recognizing the rights of all affected communities.

6. What can be done to support the Tiv in Taraba?
Support can include advocacy, humanitarian aid, political representation, and public awareness of their plight.