Bandits launched a brutal attack on Kasuwan Daji market in Demo village, Niger State. They arrived on motorcycles around 4:30 p.m. on January 3, 2026. The gunmen opened fire without warning. They burned stalls and looted food items.
The violence spread quickly to nearby villages like Agwarra, Borgu, Chukama, and Shanga. Moreover, raids started on Friday in some areas. As a result, fear gripped the region.
Eyewitness Horror
Survivors shared chilling stories. Dauda Shakulle fled the scene but suffered wounds. He said bandits spared no one, including women and children. Additionally he noted the lack of security forces. Therefore, people now recover corpses themselves.
Another witness, Khalid Pissa, estimated 40 deaths across the communities. He described flames engulfing the market. However many victims remain missing. Thus families search desperately for loved ones.
Police Confirmation
Police spokesperson Wasiu Abiodun verified the tragedy. He reported over 30 deaths and several abductions. Furthermore rescue efforts continue for the kidnapped, including children.
Abiodun explained that bandits hid in the National Park Forest. Moreover, authorities plan operations there. Yet remote areas lack strong protection.
Ongoing Crisis
Bandit attacks rise in northwestern and central Nigeria. These groups raid villages for ransom. In November, they kidnapped over 300 from a Catholic school nearby. Fortunately the victims gained freedom after a month.
However violence persists. For instance, the defense minister resigned in December amid abductions. Meanwhile the northeast battles Islamist insurgents.
Government Response
The Nigerian government rejects foreign claims of targeted killings. It states Muslims suffer most from attacks. Recently, U.S. forces struck ISIL targets in the northwest on December 25.
Security forces conduct operations but face challenges.ea05d9 Therefore, officials call for more federal support. In addition, communities must report suspicious activities.
Call for Unity
Nigerians demand better protection now. Leaders urge unity against bandits. As attacks repeat, solutions must address root causes like poverty. Moreover, swift action saves lives. The government holds the key to peace.
