Defense and Security
Taraba Massacre: Reps Raise Alarm as Bandit Attack Death Toll Hits 60
The House of Representatives has called for urgent security and humanitarian intervention following a deadly bandit attack on Binnari community in Karim Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State, which reportedly claimed at least 60 lives.
The lawmakers also called for stronger security collaboration among Taraba, Plateau and Bauchi states to tackle persistent attacks and prevent further killings in the affected communities.
The appeal followed a motion on the October 23, 2026 attack, which reportedly left dozens dead and several residents displaced.
The House urged relevant government agencies to provide immediate relief to affected residents and intensify efforts to restore security in the area.
It also called for the speedy completion of the Wase–Karim Lamido road, noting that improved road access could strengthen security operations and facilitate movement in the troubled communities.
Contributing to the debate, the Minority Leader, Fredrick Agbedi, criticised what he described as the excessive reliance on legislative resolutions and minutes of silence whenever security crises occur.
Agbedi insisted that practical measures were needed to protect lives, calling for a technology-driven security response backed by improved intelligence gathering, surveillance and coordinated operations.
In his remarks, the Deputy Speaker highlighted government efforts to tackle insecurity, including the neutralisation of terrorists, the surrender of insurgents, a reduction in the number of local government areas under insurgent control and increased security spending.
The House urged security agencies and relevant authorities to act swiftly to prevent further attacks, secure vulnerable communities and provide assistance to victims and displaced residents.
The intervention comes amid growing concerns over recurring violent attacks and their humanitarian consequences in parts of the country.
