Pastor, Four Others Killed as Suspected Boko Haram Terrorists Raid Tarfa Village

Gunfire tore through the quiet of Tarfa village when suspected Boko Haram terrorists launched a sudden and deadly raid that left a pastor and four other residents dead. The attackers struck swiftly, targeted civilians, and set parts of the community ablaze. As a result, fear spread fast, families fled in panic, and yet another rural settlement in Borno State was pushed deeper into grief and uncertainty.

The killing of a Christian pastor, the deaths of four villagers, and the destruction of homes underscore the persistent danger faced by communities across Nigeria’s North-East. Although military operations have weakened insurgent strongholds in recent years, attacks like this show that vulnerable villages remain exposed. For the people of Tarfa, the raid was not just another headline. It was a life-altering tragedy. Read also Bandits Invade Communities, Firing Sporadically in Katsina

What began as a normal afternoon ended in bloodshed.

On Wednesday, January 21, 2026, in Tarfa village, Biu Local Government Area of Borno State, suspected Boko Haram terrorists stormed the community at about 4:00 p.m. Residents said the attackers arrived on motorcycles, fired indiscriminately, and moved from house to house. Within a short time, five people lay dead, including a well-known pastor, while survivors ran for safety.

Pastor, Four Others Killed as Terrorists Invade Tarfa Village

At least five residents lost their lives during the attack. Among the victims was Evangelist Musa Umoru, a pastor with the Ekklesiyar Yan’uwa a Nigeria (EYN) Church. Community members described him as a calm and dedicated religious leader who served both Christians and non-Christians in Tarfa village.

According to local sources, Evangelist Umoru had spent most of the day on his farm. He was reportedly returning home when gunmen entered the village. Despite attempts to flee, he was shot near his residence. His death sent shockwaves through the community, as he was widely respected for promoting peace and unity.

The remaining four victims were also civilians. Reports indicate that two of them were local hunters who attempted to confront the attackers. However, the terrorists carried superior weapons and overwhelmed them easily. The other victims were villagers caught in the crossfire while trying to escape.

No evidence suggests that any of the victims were armed militants. All indications point to a direct assault on civilians. Many people are reacting to this Amotekun Arrests 16 Suspected Bandits in Transit to Ekiti State.

How the Suspected Boko Haram Terrorists Carried Out the Raid

Eyewitness accounts paint a disturbing picture of how the attack unfolded. The terrorists arrived in small groups on motorcycles, a tactic frequently used by Boko Haram fighters to maintain speed and surprise. Once inside Tarfa village, they opened fire immediately, causing panic and confusion.

Gunshots echoed across the settlement as residents scrambled for cover. Some people ran toward nearby farmlands. Others hid in bushes or behind mud walls. Unfortunately, several villagers could not escape in time.

After the initial shooting, the attackers set multiple houses and shops on fire. Thick smoke rose over the village as flames consumed buildings made of mud and thatch. Food stores, clothing, and personal belongings were destroyed within minutes.

Witnesses said the attackers looted food items before leaving. The entire operation lasted less than two hours. However, the damage will affect Tarfa for years.

Homes Burnt and Residents Forced to Flee

Following the attack, Tarfa village became nearly deserted. Survivors feared that the terrorists might return, so they fled immediately. Many residents left behind their homes, farms, and livestock.

Several families trekked to nearby communities for shelter. Others moved toward Biu town, hoping to find safety and assistance. Women carried children on their backs, while elderly residents struggled to keep up.

This sudden displacement worsened an already fragile humanitarian situation. Borno State remains home to millions of internally displaced persons who depend on host communities and aid agencies for survival.

For the displaced people of Tarfa, uncertainty now defines daily life.

Community and Religious Leaders Condemn the Killings

The Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Borno State, Most Rev. John Bakeni, confirmed the killing of the pastor and described the attack as deeply troubling.

According to him, the death of Evangelist Umoru represents more than the loss of one man. It reflects the continued vulnerability of religious leaders and rural communities in conflict-prone areas.

Local leaders also expressed frustration over recurring attacks. They noted that many villages lack permanent security presence, making them easy targets for insurgents.

Community representatives urged authorities to act swiftly to prevent further bloodshed.

Security Situation in Biu Local Government Area

Biu Local Government Area has experienced sporadic attacks over the years. Although it is not among the most frequently targeted areas in Borno State, its proximity to insurgent routes increases its risk.

Security experts note that terrorists often shift operations when pressured by military forces elsewhere. As a result, communities like Tarfa become soft targets.

Residents have repeatedly called for increased patrols and better intelligence gathering. However, limited resources and difficult terrain continue to challenge security agencies.

The Tarfa attack highlights the urgent need for sustained security coverage in rural areas.

Boko Haram’s Long History of Violence in Borno State

Boko Haram has waged an insurgency in Nigeria’s North-East for over a decade. Borno State remains the epicenter of the conflict.

The group and its splinter faction, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), have carried out attacks on villages, military bases, places of worship, and markets.

Thousands of civilians have died. Millions have been displaced. Entire communities have been wiped out.

Despite claims of military success, attacks like the one in Tarfa show that the threat persists.

Official Response and Police Reaction

As of the time of reporting, the Borno State Police Command had not released a detailed public statement on the incident.

The Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Nahum Daso, stated that security agencies were still verifying details of the attack.

Meanwhile, residents expressed concern over delays in official responses following such incidents.

They argued that faster intervention could save lives and prevent displacement.

Humanitarian Consequences of the Tarfa Attack

The impact of the attack extends beyond the immediate loss of life.

Families lost breadwinners. Children lost caregivers. Farmers lost their harvests.

Displaced residents now face hunger, exposure, and psychological trauma. Access to education and healthcare has also been disrupted.

Humanitarian organizations warn that continued attacks worsen poverty and instability across the region.

Why the Killing of a Pastor Is Significant

Religious leaders play a vital role in rural communities. They provide guidance, mediate disputes, and offer emotional support.

When they are killed, fear spreads quickly.

The death of Evangelist Musa Umoru has left a spiritual and emotional void in Tarfa village.

It also raises broader concerns about religious freedom and safety in conflict zones.

Calls for Government Action and Protection

Community leaders and civil society groups are calling for urgent government intervention.

They want increased military deployment, early warning systems, and closer collaboration with local vigilantes.

They also want long-term solutions that address poverty, unemployment, and radicalization.

Without such measures, experts warn that attacks will continue.

Conclusion

The raid on Tarfa village stands as another painful reminder of Nigeria’s ongoing security challenges.

A pastor and four innocent villagers were killed. Homes were burned. Families were displaced.

Yet, amid the tragedy, survivors continue to hope for safety and justice.

Protecting communities like Tarfa is not optional. It is essential for peace, stability, and national unity.

For further reading on insurgency in Nigeria, visit Security updates Nigeria and Punch Newspapers.