Attack in Taraba State Claims 80 Lives, Amnesty Responds

On October 23, a violent attack on the Binnari community in Karim Lamido Local Government Area, Taraba State, led to the deaths of 80 individuals. The assailants, reportedly on motorcycles from Plateau State, executed a four-hour raid during the community's weekly market day, resulting in significant looting and destruction of property.

Initially, the Taraba State Police Command reported 10 bodies recovered, but this number rose to 58 the following day, with the death toll eventually reaching 80, including 15 individuals who drowned while fleeing. Residents expressed despair over the lack of government protection, with one trader stating, "We have no government in place." In response, the police deployed additional personnel alongside the Nigerian Army.

Amnesty International condemned the attack, criticizing the federal government for failing to safeguard vulnerable communities and calling for an impartial investigation and justice for the victims.