A deadly Niger market attack has left at least 42 people confirmed dead after bandits invaded Kasuwan Daji market in Demo village, Kabe District, Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State. The incident occurred on Saturday and prompted President Bola Tinubu to order an immediate security operation to hunt down those responsible.
The attackers stormed the market, shot civilians, abducted several others, and set parts of the area ablaze. They also looted food items and other goods before escaping through routes linked to the Kainji Lake National Park.
Police confirm Niger market attack, rescue underway
The Niger State Police Command confirmed the attack on Sunday. The command’s spokesperson, Wasiu Abiodun, said a joint security team visited the scene shortly after the incident.
According to him, security agencies have launched coordinated operations to rescue those abducted during the attack. He added that efforts to stabilise the affected communities remain ongoing.
Tinubu orders military, police to hunt bandits
In response, President Tinubu directed the Minister of Defence, the Chief of Defence Staff, the Service Chiefs, the Inspector-General of Police, and the Director-General of the Department of State Services to track and apprehend the attackers.
Presidential spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, said the President also ordered the urgent rescue of all kidnapped victims. He added that the perpetrators must face justice without delay.
Security sources believe the bandits may be fleeing from Sokoto and Zamfara States. Reports suggest recent foreign air strikes in those regions disrupted criminal hideouts, forcing armed groups to move toward Niger State.
President condemns attack, sends condolences
According to Onanuga, President Tinubu strongly condemned the attack, describing it as a brutal assault on innocent Nigerians. He expressed condolences to the families of the victims and to the government and people of Niger State.
“These terrorists have tested the resolve of our country and its people,” the President said. “They must face the full consequences of their criminal actions.”
He warned that security forces would pursue not only the attackers but also anyone who supports or shelters them.
Security operations to intensify in forest areas
Tinubu assured residents that security agencies would intensify operations around vulnerable communities, especially those near forest reserves that serve as criminal hideouts.
He urged Nigerians to remain united and avoid divisive rhetoric during the period of mourning. According to him, national cohesion remains essential in confronting insecurity.
“These times demand our humanity,” Tinubu said. “We must stand together and reclaim peace and security for our communities.”
