Tension as church collapses during service in Taraba

Worshippers at the United Methodist Church of Nigeria (UMCN) in Mutum-Biyu, Taraba State, were thrown into chaos and panic on Sunday after the church building collapsed during a service.

The tragic incident occurred in the headquarters of Gassol Local Government Area amid a fierce rainstorm that swept through the town, accompanied by powerful winds. According to eyewitnesses, the structure, already weakened by the harsh weather, gave way with a loud crack, plunging the congregation into fear and confusion.

“We were deep into the service when we heard the sound. Before anyone could react, part of the building caved in,” one worshipper recounted. “People screamed and ran in every direction. It was terrifying.”

While no fatalities were recorded, several worshippers sustained varying degrees of injuries. Emergency responders and good Samaritans quickly rushed the injured to the Mutum-Biyu Referral Hospital for urgent medical attention. Those who suffered bone fractures were reportedly taken to a local traditional bone healer in the town for treatment.

Speaking to our correspondent, Alhaji Baffa Wanzami, a well-known bone healer in the area, confirmed that three of the injured, including a young girl with fractures to her arms and legs, were brought to him for treatment.

“It’s a sad incident. Some of the worshippers who sustained fractures, including a little girl, were brought to me and I’ve treated them,” Wanzami said.

Another resident, Musa Adamu, revealed that the windstorm also destroyed several houses in Mutum-Biyu during the downpour.