The Northern Christians Religious Leaders Assembly (NOCRELA) has strongly condemned the recent spate of killings and arson attacks targeting Tiv Christians in Chanchanji district of Takum Local Government Area in Taraba State, North East Nigeria.
According to the group, suspected Fulani militia are responsible for the killings which has reportedly claimed at least 102 lives and left over 31 people injured in just 33 days, from January 2 to February 3, 2026.
Taraba State Chairman of NOCRELA,Rev. Dr. Amb. Micah Philip Dopah, described the attacks as “continuous, horrific, brutal, and specifically targeted against our Tiv Christian brethren and NKST churches.”
He expressed shock at the scale of violence, noting that “ten murderous attacks in 33 days is horrific! Where is the government? And where are the security agencies?”
NOCRELA officials said they interacted extensively with members of the Tiv community and affected NKST pastors, who confirmed that the attacks were deliberate and targeted. The victims also voiced frustration over what they perceive as government inaction.
“The laxity of the government in defending the people has emboldened these militants to continue these satanic killings,” Dopah said.
The religious leaders stressed that such violent criminality against Tiv people and NKST churches is “totally condemnable and unacceptable.” NOCRELA has called on the federal and state security agencies to intensify efforts to apprehend the perpetrators and ensure protection for the affected communities. “We urge the government and security agencies to fish out these perpetrators and show deliberate efforts in defending the Tiv people and NKST churches in Taraba State,” Dopah added.
The group also expressed heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and the wider NKST church community. “Our hearts are broken at this act of violence against our Tiv Christian brethren,” the clergyman said. “While we engage the security agencies and the government on this matter, we extend our deepest sympathies to the bereaved families. May the souls of the departed rest in peace.”
Security analysts warn that unless immediate interventions are made, such targeted attacks could escalate, further threatening communal peace in the region. NOCRELA has pledged to continue monitoring the situation and supporting the Tiv community through advocacy and engagement with authorities.