President Tinubu
By Olamilekan Abayomi
President Bola Tinubu has directed security agencies to hunt down terrorists responsible for the Niger market attack, where over 30 people were killed and several others abducted. The attack occurred at Kasuwan Daji market in Demo village, Niger State, with gunmen burning stalls, looting food items, and opening fire indiscriminately .
The President has ordered the Minister of Defence, the Chief of Defence Staff, and other security chiefs to intensify operations around vulnerable communities, especially near forests. He also directed the immediate rescue of all abducted victims, warning that those aiding or enabling the terrorists will be brought to justice.
The attack is believed to be linked to terrorists fleeing from Sokoto and Zamfara states following a US airstrike on Christmas Eve. The gunmen, reportedly from the National Park Forest, targeted Kasuwan Daji village, leaving a trail of destruction and chaos .
Governor Mohammed Bago of Niger State condemned the attack, describing it as cruel and nefarious. He assured residents that his administration is working closely with the Federal Government and security agencies to restore peace in the affected areas.
Amnesty International criticized the Nigerian authorities for failing to protect lives, stating that the government has left rural communities at the mercy of rampaging gunmen. The organization called for proactive measures to address insecurity, particularly in rural areas.
Tinubu’s directive has been welcomed by stakeholders, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who described the attack as heinous and brazen. The President’s resolve to hunt down the perpetrators has been seen as a step towards addressing the country’s security challenges.
