President Bola Tinubu has ordered an immediate manhunt for terrorists behind a deadly attack on communities in Niger State that left over 40 people dead and many others abducted.
In a statement personally signed on Sunday, the President directed the Minister of Defence, security chiefs, the Inspector-General of Police, and the DSS to track down the perpetrators of the Kasuwan Daji attack and ensure they face justice. He also ordered the immediate rescue of abducted victims and intensified security around vulnerable communities, especially those near forests.
The directive followed coordinated attacks on Saturday in Agwara and Borgu local government areas, where suspected bandits reportedly emerged from the National Park forest and stormed Kasuwan Daji market, killing residents, burning shops, looting food items and abducting villagers, including women and children.
While police confirmed over 30 fatalities, community leaders and the Catholic Diocese of Kontagora said the death toll exceeded 40, with dozens abducted. Fear has since forced many residents to flee their homes.
Condemning the killings, Ogun State Governor and Southern Governors’ Forum Chairman Dapo Abiodun described the attack as “callous and senseless,” urging security agencies to deploy all resources to crush the terrorists and prevent further bloodshed.
