President Bola Tinubu has issued a high-level directive to the nation’s security chiefs to “hunt down” the terrorists responsible for the brutal weekend attack on the Kasuwan Daji community in Niger State.
In a statement released on Sunday, the President mandated the Minister of Defence, the Chief of Defence Staff, the Service Chiefs, and the heads of the DSS and Police to track down the perpetrators and ensure the immediate rescue of abducted women and children.
The attack occurred on Saturday evening at the Kasuwan Daji market in Borgu Local Government Area, plunging the nation into mourning.
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Police and local church officials confirmed that between 30 and 40 people were killed in the assault, with some victims found as charred bodies inside the burned market stalls.
The attackers also set the local market and several residential houses ablaze, causing widespread destruction.
In addition, an unspecified number of residents—mostly women and children—were abducted and taken into the nearby National Park Forest.
The Presidency identified the assailants as suspected terrorists fleeing recent U.S.-assisted airstrikes carried out in Sokoto and Zamfara on Christmas Eve, who are now believed to be seeking refuge and resources in the forested areas of Niger State.
Tinubu condemned the raid in the strongest terms, describing the terrorists as “monsters” who have underestimated the nation’s determination.
“These terrorists have tested the resolve of our country and its people. They must, therefore, face the full consequences of their criminal actions,” the President declared.
“No matter who they are or what their intent is, they must be hunted down. They, and all those who aid, abet, or enable them in any form, will be caught and brought to justice.”
In response to the tragedy, security agencies have been ordered to intensify operations around vulnerable rural communities, particularly those bordering the National Park Forest.
This vast woodland has long served as a corridor and hideout for bandits and insurgent groups.
The President urged Nigerians to remain united and cautioned against “divisive rhetoric” that could weaken national cohesion during this crisis.
He emphasised that the survival of these communities depends on a unified front between the government, security forces, and the citizenry.
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The President extended his “heartfelt condolences” to the families of the victims and the Government of Niger State.
This latest violence comes just weeks after the state celebrated the release of over 100 schoolchildren previously kidnapped in the Agwara area, highlighting the persistent security challenges in the region.
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