President Bola Tinubu has ordered a full scale manhunt for the terrorists responsible for the deadly attack on Kasuwan Daji market in Niger State, where at least 30 people were killed and many others abducted.
The directive, issued on Sunday, mandates the military, police and the State Security Service to track down the perpetrators and ensure the immediate rescue of all kidnapped victims.
The attack occurred on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at Kasuwan Daji market in the Demo community of Borgu Local Government Area. Armed men stormed the busy market, killed residents including women, abducted scores of people and set shops and stalls on fire.
In a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu warned that the attackers would not escape justice.
“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,” he said.
He added that anyone aiding or supporting the attackers would also be brought to justice, saying, “They, and all those who aid, abet, or enable them in any form, will be caught and brought to justice.”
Tinubu linked the Niger attack to terrorists fleeing strongholds in Sokoto and Zamfara states following recent United States airstrikes on jihadist enclaves in the region.
He noted that the pressure on terrorist camps may have forced the gunmen to seek new operational routes into neighbouring Niger State.
Confirming the incident, Niger State Police spokesperson, SP Wasiu Abiodun, said suspected bandits invaded the market from the National Park forest along Kabe District.
He said the attackers burnt the market, looted shops and made away with food items, adding that security operatives had commenced operations in the area.
Tinubu expressed condolences to the families of those killed and to the government and people of Niger State.
He assured residents that security agencies have been directed to intensify operations around vulnerable communities to prevent further attacks.
He also called on Nigerians to remain united and avoid statements that could weaken national cohesion at a time of heightened security challenges.
“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, and reclaim peace and security for our communities,” Tinubu said.
Residents of Kasuwan Daji disclosed that they had noticed the movement of armed men in nearby communities days before the attack.
The market is located close to Papiri community, where more than 300 schoolchildren and teachers were abducted from a Catholic school in November 2025.
The Federal Government has designated several armed groups operating across Sokoto, Zamfara, Kebbi and parts of Niger State as terrorist organisations, amid growing concerns over the spread of violence into new areas.
