Nigeria attack death toll disputed as residents flee Taraba community

The death toll from an attack by gunmen on Binnari, a rural community in northeastern Nigeria’s Taraba State, is disputed. The state government reported 25 fatalities, while Amnesty International said at least 40 people were killed.

The attack took place between Friday evening and Saturday morning in the Karim-Lamido Local Government Area, when armed men entered the community and opened fire on residents, Anadolu Agency reported.

Amnesty International gave its toll on Saturday evening, while the Taraba State government reported 25 deaths on Sunday. The figures could not immediately be independently reconciled.

Witnesses told Anadolu Agency that the assailants arrived on motorcycles, attacked residents and looted property, including food supplies, cash and motorcycles. They also set homes and shops on fire, forcing survivors to flee to neighbouring communities.

The attack has renewed concerns about the protection of rural communities in Taraba, where residents have faced repeated threats from armed groups.

Taraba State Governor Agbu Kefas condemned the killings on Sunday and urged security agencies to step up efforts to protect residents and apprehend those responsible.

The governor’s re-election campaign council separately warned politicians against politicising the tragedy after criticism of the state government’s handling of insecurity.

Amnesty International called for an impartial investigation, justice for the victims and stronger protection for communities at risk of further attacks.

The incident adds to Nigeria’s ongoing security challenges. Rural communities in several regions face attacks by armed groups, kidnappings and killings, with violence displacing residents and prompting calls for stronger protection of vulnerable communities.