Taraba’s bloody market day

An attack by suspected bandits in Binnari town, Taraba State, has left at least 52 people dead, including women and children, according to reports. The bodies of 51 victims were buried on Saturday, and one more person was recovered on Sunday, raising the death toll to 52. A six-month-old baby, Adamu Rayyanu, also suffered gunshot wounds.

Amnesty International Nigeria has reported that 40 people were killed, with additional bodies still being discovered. Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Victor Mshelizah, stated that only 10 people were killed. Residents, however, claim that many more people are missing as the search for bodies in the bush and Binnari River continues.

Witnesses say the bandits entered the town shortly after Jumm'at prayers, firing shots and causing panic among residents. Some people drowned while fleeing into the river, while others were killed or injured by the attackers. The bandits looted shops and stores, leaving behind a scene of destruction. Taraba State Governor Agbu Kefas has ordered security agencies to take urgent action to restore calm and bring the perpetrators to justice.