At least 58 people were reported dead after gunmen attacked Binnari in Taraba State, Nigeria, on Friday, October 23, although residents and rights monitors gave lower counts that rose as more bodies were found.
The attack hit the community’s weekly market in Karim-Lamido Local Government Area. It reportedly happened shortly after Friday prayers, while traders and visitors from nearby settlements were gathered. Witnesses said the attackers arrived on motorcycles and opened fire.
They looted shops and homes and set property ablaze. As people fled, some ran toward a river. Police said 15 people drowned when an overloaded canoe carrying fleeing residents capsized.
Police first confirmed 10 deaths. They later said the toll had risen to 58 as search teams recovered more bodies from the river and nearby bushes. Residents put the toll at 50, while Amnesty International reported 52.
The different figures showed that the death toll was uncertain as families continued looking for missing people. Authorities said searches were continuing. Taraba’s government began distributing relief supplies to affected families.
No group had claimed responsibility for the attack as of Monday.