The Taraba State Government has deployed security personnel and delivered emergency relief materials to residents of Binnari community following a deadly attack that reportedly claimed more than 50 lives.
The intervention, directed by Governor Agbu Kefas, came less than 24 hours after the attack, which displaced families and destroyed homes, shops and other property.
The attack occurred on the community’s weekly market day, shortly after Jumat prayers, when suspected armed herders allegedly opened fire indiscriminately.
Residents say the attackers looted food items from shops and homes and set residential buildings, shops and motorcycles ablaze, forcing scores of people to flee.
Government Intervenes
The Executive Secretary of the Taraba State Emergency Management Agency (TSEMA), Dr. Echuseh Audu, who led the relief team to the community, appealed for calm and assured victims that the government would not abandon them.
She said the government, in collaboration with security agencies, was taking steps to restore normalcy and strengthen security in the area.
“We are here to assure the victims that the government has not abandoned them. We are working with security agencies to restore normalcy and strengthen security in this community,” Audu said.
Lawmaker Calls for Interstate Collaboration
The member representing Karim II Constituency in the Taraba State House of Assembly, Anas Shuaibu, commended the state government’s swift response and sympathised with affected families.
He called for stronger security collaboration between Taraba and Plateau states, alleging that the attackers came from the neighbouring state.
Community Demands Lasting Solution
For stakeholders in Binnari, the attack underscores the urgent need for sustainable security measures.
Tanko Bobbo, an indigene of Binnari and Special Adviser to the Governor on Dry-Season Farming, described the community as particularly vulnerable, noting that it has suffered repeated attacks.
He called for improved road connectivity, saying better access would facilitate the movement of security personnel and enable a faster response to emergencies.
Relief Efforts Continue
TSEMA said the distribution of relief materials is only the first phase of its intervention. The agency is continuing to assess the extent of destruction and identify the immediate needs of affected residents.
Residents have been urged to remain calm and vigilant and to provide credible information to security agencies to help prevent further attacks.
The state government says it remains committed to supporting victims and restoring peace and stability to Binnari community.
