Binnari Attack: Death Toll Rises to 58 as Taraba Begins Relief for Victims

KARIM LAMIDO, Taraba State — October 25, 2026

The death toll from a deadly attack on Binnari community in Karim Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State has risen to 58, including 15 residents who reportedly drowned while fleeing the assailants, according to the latest report attributed to the state police command.

The attack occurred on Friday, October 23, when suspected gunmen invaded the community, opened fire on residents and reportedly looted shops and destroyed property.

According to Leadership, the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Victor Mshelizah, disclosed on Sunday that additional bodies had been recovered from surrounding bushes and a river following the attack.

The report said 15 residents died after a canoe carrying people escaping the violence capsized. The victims were reportedly fleeing the attackers when the overloaded canoe overturned.

The updated figure follows an earlier police confirmation that 10 bodies had been recovered. Amnesty International subsequently reported that at least 40 people were killed, while community accounts cited by other media outlets put the toll higher.

The reported differences in casualty figures reflect the evolving situation as further information emerged from the affected community.

Homes, Shops Destroyed

Residents told media organisations that the attackers looted food supplies and other valuables, while houses, shops and motorcycles were reportedly set ablaze.

The violence forced residents to flee their homes and seek refuge in neighbouring communities. The full extent of the destruction and the number of displaced households have not yet been independently established.

The attack has renewed concerns about the security of rural communities in Karim Lamido, particularly those facing difficult road access and limited telecommunications coverage.

Taraba Government Sends Relief Materials

Meanwhile, the Taraba State Government has begun providing emergency assistance to affected residents through the Taraba State Emergency Management Agency.

The Guardian reported on Sunday that the relief intervention included foodstuffs, mattresses, blankets and other essential supplies for families affected by the attack.

The agency’s Executive Secretary, Dr Echuseh Audu, said the exercise was intended to provide immediate assistance while officials assessed the extent of the destruction and the additional needs of affected households.

The government said further assistance would be guided by the assessment and pledged to support affected residents as efforts to restore normalcy continued.

Calls for Stronger Security

The killings have intensified calls for improved security in Binnari and neighbouring communities.

Community representatives have raised concerns about difficult road access, which they say can delay the arrival of security personnel during emergencies. Calls have also been made for stronger security arrangements along the boundary between Taraba and neighbouring Plateau State.

Governor Agbu Kefas condemned the killings and called on security agencies to take urgent action to protect residents and apprehend those responsible, according to reports by Channels Television.

Amnesty International has also called for an impartial investigation into the attack and measures to protect vulnerable communities from further violence.

For affected families, the immediate priorities include assistance for displaced residents, support for survivors and the restoration of security.

As the situation develops, authorities will need to clarify the final casualty figures, account for missing residents, assess the destruction of homes and livelihoods, and explain what additional measures will be taken to prevent further attacks.

Sources: Leadership, October 25, 2026; The Guardian, October 25, 2026; Premium Times, October 25, 2026; Channels Television, October 25, 2026.