Date: December 1, 1964.
Another Tiv uprising erupted in 1964, following growing tensions that had been building since 1963. The immediate trigger for the violence was the government’s imposition of a riot damage fine of ₦5.10 per person, in addition to the existing annual tax of ₦4.50. This sudden financial burden, totaling ₦9.60 per taxpayer, was to be paid within three weeks, with defaulters facing six months in prison. The Tiv people viewed the fine as both punitive and oppressive, leading to widespread resentment.
The situation escalated on February 12, 1964, when Gbargbar Apinega, the clan head of Mbalagh, along with three others, was killed. His murder ignited full-scale violence between supporters of the Northern People’s Congress (NPC) and the United Middle Belt Congress (UMBC). As the conflict spread, a detachment of Nigerian police was deployed to contain the unrest. However, on their way, they were ambushed by armed groups, resulting in the deaths of six officers, with several others wounded or reported missing.
The violence quickly engulfed Tivland, spreading to areas such as Buruku, Udei, Ugba, Sevav, and Zaki-Biam. The primary targets of the rioters included traditional authorities, tax collectors, court officials, and the police. Law enforcement officers faced brutal attacks, with some being ambushed and killed. Official reports confirmed the deaths of twelve policemen, while estimates of civilian casualties ranged between 2,000 and 4,000, with many others wounded.
Despite police efforts, the intensity of the uprising made it difficult to suppress. Ultimately, it was the deployment of military forces that restored order in Tivland, bringing an end to yet another heavily suppressed revolt.
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