Amnesty International has condemned Friday’s attack by gunmen on Binnari community in Karim Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State, saying at least 40 people were killed.
The attack on 23 October came shortly after Friday congregational prayers, according to THISDAY. Children and elderly people were among the victims, and many residents fled. Police initially confirmed 10 bodies on Friday evening, but more were recovered later and on Saturday morning. SaharaReporters put the toll at 26 after 11 more bodies were found on Saturday, while THISDAY reported about 30 dead.
Amnesty said the gunmen also burnt foodstuff, homes, shops and motorcycles. The community is littered with bodies, some burnt beyond recognition, and families say many people are still missing. Some residents were reportedly attacked as they fled, and others are said to have fallen into a river while escaping.
The Taraba State Police spokesman, ASP Victor Mshelizah, confirmed the incident. He said preliminary reports indicated the attackers first came to steal foodstuff and other valuables. He added that their identities had not been established and that police would intensify efforts to protect lives and property. Local sources said the assailants may have entered from neighbouring Plateau State, a claim that has not been independently verified.
Amnesty said the authorities continue to leave rural communities in parts of the north at the mercy of gunmen who commit atrocities with impunity. It called for an impartial investigation and adequate reparations for survivors. The organisation said bland statements of condemnation are not enough, and that the repeated failure to bring suspected perpetrators to justice is emboldening impunity.
Search and recovery operations are continuing, and the number of missing people, the extent of injuries and the scale of property damage remain unclear. As of the latest reports, no arrests had been announced and the Taraba State government had not issued an official response. Residents are calling for stronger security in Karim Lamido and other parts of the state.
