In brief
Unknown gunmen attacked Binnari village in Taraba state, killing at least 10, looting shops and burning houses. Survivors estimate casualties could be as high as 50. Police recovered bodies but are still searching for the missing. Amnesty International criticised authorities and urged an impartial inquiry. The attack highlights the continuing insecurity in northern and central Nigeria.
Remote village attack in Taraba state
At least 10 people were killed when gunmen raided the village of Binnari in Karim Lamido, Taraba, on Friday after midday prayers. The attackers, believed to have ridden about 50 motorcycles, looted shops and set houses on fire, reports sources.
Survivors claim the death toll is likely higher, with one witness counting 20 dead and a local NGO estimating up to 50. Police recovered 10 bodies with gunshot wounds and are continuing to search the nearby bush for missing people.
Assistant Superintendent of Police Victor Mshelizah said the officers were able to disperse the gunmen without suffering casualties on either side, citing the terrain and the attackers' familiarity with it.
Community leader Malam Abubakar Saifullahi described how the attackers took cash, food supplies and abandoned motorcycles. Amnesty International called for an impartial investigation, accusing authorities of leaving rural communities vulnerable.
The incident underscores Nigeria's ongoing security crisis, with armed groups active across the northwest, northeast and central regions, and a nearly two‑decade‑long jihadist insurgency in the northeast remaining unresolved.
