Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu has vowed to bring perpetrators of a deadly market attack in Niger state to justice. The assault, which occurred on Saturday, left at least 30 people dead and several others abducted.
The attack on Kasuwan-Daji village market happened around 4 pm local time, with heavily armed terrorists setting the market ablaze and making off with food items. Locals report that the death toll could be as high as 40.
Tinubu has directed the Minister of Defence, Chief of Defence Staff, and other senior officials to track down those responsible. “These terrorists have tested the resolve of our country and its people. They must face the full consequences of their criminal actions,” he said.
Security Emergency Rescue
The President has also ordered security agencies to rescue abducted victims urgently. A joint security team has visited the area, prioritizing rescue operations.
Niger state has seen an increase in attacks by armed groups, who kidnap people for ransom. In July, over 30 people were kidnapped, and families paid $35,000 for their return. In November, over 200 students were abducted but later rescued.
Tinubu condemned the attack, sending condolences to families of victims and urging Nigerians to remain united against terrorism. The Northern States Governors’ Forum backs Tinubu’s order, calling for swift justice.
The attack is believed to be linked to terrorists fleeing Sokoto and Zamfara states after a US air strike on Christmas Eve. Security agencies have been ordered to intensify operations around vulnerable communities.
The President assured Nigerians that his government won’t allow terrorists to undermine national peace. “We must stand together and confront these monsters in unison,” he said.
The Nigerian government is working to rescue abducted victims and bring perpetrators to justice. Security agencies are combing nearby forests for the abductees.
Tinubu’s government has vowed to tackle insecurity, with recent efforts to deploy troops to troubled areas. The situation remains fluid, with concerns about further attacks.