Taraba Extends Karim Lamido Security Status By Six Months After Attack Kills 58

Taraba State governor, Dr Agbu Kefas, has extended the designation of Karim Lamido Local Government Area as an Area of Particular Security Concern by another six months following an attack on Binnari community that killed 58 people.

Kefas announced the decision on Monday during an emergency security meeting at the Executive Chamber of T.Y. Danjuma House in Jalingo, the state capital.

The attack, which occurred on Friday, left residents traumatised and heightened security concerns in Binnari and neighbouring communities.

The police command confirmed over the weekend that suspected armed men invaded the community, killing 58 people, including 15 who reportedly drowned while fleeing the attackers.

Condemning the incident, the governor described its consequences as devastating and reaffirmed his administration’s determination to protect residents and bring those responsible to justice.

“We have gathered to mourn those we have lost, support those affected, and agree on the actions required to protect our people,” he said.

Kefas warned that his administration would not allow criminal elements to undermine the state’s peace, expressing confidence that security agencies would identify and apprehend those behind the violence.

“Our long-standing peace must not be disrupted by those who seek to destroy it.

“We are on track to identify and apprehend the criminals who have vowed to threaten our peace and security,” the governor stated.

He directed relevant authorities to account for all missing persons, establish their whereabouts and provide necessary support to affected individuals and families.

The governor also ordered security agencies to investigate the attackers’ movements and motives, determine possible links to other criminal activities and strengthen coordination to prevent further attacks on Binnari and neighbouring communities.

Kefas urged traditional rulers, ward and village heads, youths and farmers to provide credible information to security agencies through appropriate channels to support efforts to restore peace.

He also called on members of the public and media practitioners to verify information before publication, warning that the circulation of unconfirmed reports could heighten tension in affected communities.

Speaking after the meeting, the Taraba State Commissioner of Police, CP Edwin Ogbeghagha, said the governor had directed security agencies to take measures to prevent a recurrence of such attacks in Karim Lamido Local Government Area.

The extension of the security designation is expected to sustain heightened security attention in the area as authorities intensify efforts to protect residents and prevent further violence.