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Taraba massacre: Reps demand urgent help as death toll hits 60

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The House of Representatives has called for immediate security and humanitarian intervention following a deadly bandit attack on Binnari community in Karim Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State, which reportedly claimed 60 lives.

The lawmakers also called for enhanced security collaboration among Taraba, Plateau and Bauchi states to address persistent attacks and prevent further casualties.

The demand followed a motion on the attack, which allegedly took place on October 23, 2026, resulting in dozens of deaths and the displacement of residents.

The House further urged the immediate provision of relief materials to affected communities and called on relevant authorities to fast-track the completion of the Wase–Karim Lamido road to enhance accessibility and strengthen security in the area.

During the debate, Minority Leader Fredrick Agbedi faulted what he described as the excessive reliance on resolutions and minutes of silence whenever security crises occur, arguing that concrete actions were needed to safeguard lives.

He advocated a technology-based approach to security, emphasising the importance of improved intelligence gathering, surveillance and coordinated operations to tackle the attackers.

Responding, the Deputy Speaker highlighted government measures to combat insecurity, including the neutralisation of terrorists, the surrender of insurgents, a decline in the number of local government areas under insurgent control and increased security expenditure.

The intervention by the House reflects mounting concerns over the humanitarian impact of repeated attacks across parts of the country and the urgent need for joint efforts by federal and state governments.

The lawmakers consequently called on relevant agencies to take immediate steps to restore peace, support victims and prevent further attacks on vulnerable communities.