Security Measures Extended in Taraba After Binnari Attack

Taraba State Governor Agbu Kefas has extended the status of Karim-Lamido Local Government Area as a special security zone for another six months. This decision follows the deadly attack on Binnari community.

The governor made the announcement on Monday after an urgent security meeting at T.Y. Danjuma House in Jalingo, the state capital. This was in response to the attack on October 23 that killed many residents and left families in shock.

Governor Kefas said the extension aims to keep security operations active in an area where violence keeps threatening lives and peace. He condemned the killings and called them a painful loss for both the families affected and the state.

"We have gathered to mourn those we have lost, support those affected, and agree on the actions required to protect our people," the governor stated. He promised that his administration would protect lives and property, vowing to identify, arrest, and prosecute those responsible for the attack.

The governor ordered relevant authorities to account for missing persons and find out where they are. He also instructed security agencies to look into the attackers' movements and motives, including any links to other crimes.

Kefas called for a coordinated security response to safeguard Binnari and nearby communities from future attacks. He asked traditional rulers, ward and village heads, youths, and farmers to provide useful information to help ongoing investigations and prevent further violence.

The governor warned residents and media outlets against spreading unverified information that could increase tension in the affected areas. Karim-Lamido was first declared a special security area in January 2026 through Executive Order No. 1 due to ongoing communal clashes, bandit attacks, and conflicts between farmers and herders.

However, the recent attack on Binnari has raised concerns about how effective the current security measures are and how safe vulnerable rural communities feel. The police initially confirmed 10 deaths from the October 23 attack, but later reports showed a higher number as more bodies were found in nearby areas.

The governor expressed his condolences to the families in mourning and to the people of Binnari. He assured them that the government is committed to restoring peace and stopping further attacks.

Kefas said the extended security designation would keep focus on the area while the government works to regain residents' trust and tackle the security issues facing the local government.

The government also called for cooperation among community leaders, residents, and security agencies to ensure lasting peace in Karim-Lamido.