Reported by Afilawos Magana Sur, Managing Editor | Journalist at Sele Media Africa.

Fresh violence has erupted in northeastern Nigeria after suspected youths burned at least 18 thatched houses in Tompo Village, located in Takum Local Government Area, reigniting long-standing tensions between the Tiv people and the Kuteb people communities. Residents said the attackers, believed to be Kuteb-speaking youths, targeted homes belonging to Tiv families who had recently returned to the village after years of displacement. The affected houses—largely traditional thatched structures—were reduced to ashes, leaving dozens of residents homeless and forcing many to flee again. The attack occurred in Tompo, a rural settlement within Taraba State, an area historically affected by communal disputes over land ownership, political representation, and local authority. Returning families displaced again according to local accounts, the targeted Tiv residents had only recently begun returning to Tompo following years of absence. The village had been largely abandoned since violent clashes between Tiv and Kuteb communities in 2006, which forced many families to relocate to nearby towns and internally displaced persons settlements. Recent reconciliation efforts led by community leaders and local authorities had encouraged some displaced residents to rebuild their homes and farms. However, the latest incident has disrupted those fragile recovery efforts.Witnesses said the attackers set fire to homes late in the day, destroying not only shelter but also essential household items. Victims reported losing food grains, clothing, and personal belongings, including mobile phones and farming tools—items crucial for rural livelihoods. Security response and investigation Police authorities confirmed that detectives have visited the affected village and launched an investigation into the arson attack. Officials say efforts are underway to identify and apprehend those responsible. Security agencies have also begun assessing the security situation in the area amid fears that the incident could escalate into broader communal violence if not swiftly contained. Local leaders have called for restraint from both communities while urging authorities to strengthen security presence to prevent reprisals. Longstanding communal tensions the Tiv–Kuteb conflict in southern Taraba has persisted for decades, often fueled by disputes over land rights, political representation, and chieftaincy structures. Periodic violence has repeatedly displaced communities and strained social relations in Takum and surrounding areas.Analysts warn that renewed attacks on returning populations could undermine fragile peace-building initiatives aimed at restoring stability and enabling displaced families to resettle. For now, many Tompo residents remain uncertain about their future, as charred remains of homes stand as stark reminders of unresolved communal tensions. Sources: Reports and regional security updates referenced by reputable media outlets including Daily Trust, Premium Times, Vanguard, and BBC News.

Afilawos Magana Sur

Afilawos Magana Sur is a journalist from Bogoro Local Government Area of Bauchi State, currently based in Bauchi metropolis. He is known for his commitment to accurate, ethical, and responsible journalism, with a focus on reporting issues of public relevance and community development.

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