Tinubu Vows No Mercy: Orders Full-Scale Hunt for Terrorists After Deadly Niger Market Massacre

By Emmanuel Kwada

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has issued a stern directive to Nigeria’s top security chiefs, ordering an immediate and relentless pursuit of the terrorists responsible for the brutal attack on Kasuwan Daji market in Niger State, where over 30 people were killed and many others, including women and children, abducted.

In a strongly worded statement released on Sunday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President condemned the assault on the Kasuwan Daji community in Borgu Local Government Area, describing it as a direct challenge to the nation’s resolve.

“These terrorists have tested the resolve of our country and its people. They must, therefore, face the full consequences of their criminal actions. 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,” President Tinubu declared.

The attack occurred on Saturday afternoon when armed bandits, emerging from forests in the Kainji Lake National Park area along Kabe District, stormed the bustling market in Demo village.

Eyewitnesses and police reports indicate the gunmen opened fire indiscriminately, burned down market stalls, looted shops, and carted away food items before abducting several victims. Niger State Police confirmed over 30 deaths, with some local sources claiming the toll could be higher.

The President directed the Minister of Defence, Chief of Defence Staff, Service Chiefs, Inspector-General of Police, and Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS) to track down the perpetrators and ensure their swift apprehension. He also mandated an urgent rescue operation for all abducted victims.

Authorities suspect the attackers may be displaced militants fleeing intensified operations in neighboring Sokoto and Zamfara states, following U.S.-conducted airstrikes on Christmas Day 2025 targeting Islamic State-affiliated camps.

President Tinubu extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and the people of Niger State, assuring intensified security patrols around vulnerable communities, especially those near forest hideouts used by criminal elements.

He called for national unity in the face of such tragedies, urging Nigerians to reject divisive rhetoric and stand together against the threat.

“These times demand our humanity. We must stand together as one people and confront these monsters in unison. United, we can and must defeat them, deny them any sanctuary. We must reclaim the peace and security of these attacked communities,” the President said.

The incident underscores ongoing security challenges in northern Nigeria, where banditry and terrorism continue to claim lives despite military efforts. Security agencies have deployed joint teams to the scene, with rescue and pursuit operations underway.