Tinubu Orders Manhunt as Terrorists Kill Over 40 in Niger State

President directs security chiefs to hunt attackers, rescue abducted victims

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered an immediate manhunt for the terrorists responsible for a deadly attack on several communities in Niger State that left more than 40 people dead and many others abducted.

In a statement personally signed on Sunday, the President said he had directed the Minister of Defence, the Chief of Defence Staff, the Service Chiefs, the Inspector-General of Police, and the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS) to track down the perpetrators of the Kasuwan Daji attack and ensure they are brought to justice.

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

He stressed that no one involved in the attacks would be spared.

“No matter who they are or what their intent is, they must be hunted down. Those who aid, abet, or enable them will also be brought to justice,” the President added.

Rescue Operations, Security Reinforcement Ordered

Tinubu further directed the immediate rescue of all abducted victims and ordered intensified security operations around vulnerable communities, particularly those located near forests.

“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 and deny them any sanctuary. We must reclaim peace for these attacked communities,” he said, while praying for the repose of the victims’ souls.

Details of the Attack

The presidential directive followed coordinated attacks by suspected bandits on Saturday afternoon in Agwara and Borgu Local Government Areas of Niger State.

According to the Niger State Police Command, the attackers are believed to have emerged from the National Park forest along Kabe District before storming Kasuwan Daji in Demo Village.

Police spokesperson Wasiu Abiodun said the attack began at about 4:30 p.m. and lasted several hours.

“At about 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, suspected bandits invaded Kasuwan Daji, killed over 30 persons, burnt the market, looted shops and carted away valuables,” Abiodun said.

He explained that the attackers met little resistance due to the remoteness of the area but noted that security forces were later deployed.

“A joint security team has visited the scene, and efforts are ongoing to rescue the abducted victims. Further developments will be communicated,” he added.

Death Toll Disputed

While police confirmed that more than 30 people were killed, residents and community leaders said the casualty figure was significantly higher.

The Director of Communications of the Catholic Diocese of Kontagora, Rev. Fr Stephen Kabirat, said no fewer than 40 people lost their lives during the raid.

“The terrorists have killed over 40 persons and taken some into captivity,” Kabirat said.

Residents reported widespread fear across surrounding communities, with many fleeing to neighbouring villages and crossing the river in search of safety.

“This is a serious crisis. The government and security agencies should come to our aid. People are living in fear, and many communities are now deserted,” a community source said.

History of Repeated Attacks

The area has suffered repeated terrorist attacks in recent months. In November 2025, terrorists raided St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary School in Papiri, abducting 315 pupils, students, and teachers. They were released about a month later following federal government intervention.

Abiodun Condemns Killings

Meanwhile, Ogun State Governor and Chairman of the Southern Governors’ Forum, Dapo Abiodun, condemned the killings, describing them as callous, senseless, and a crime against humanity.

In a statement issued on Sunday in Abeokuta, Abiodun expressed condolences to Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago and the people of the state.

“I commiserate with the government and people of Niger State over the dastardly attacks by terrorists that left 42 people dead and many others abducted,” he said.

“The cowardly onslaught on innocent citizens going about their lawful business represents a stain on our nation’s conscience. Such brutality must never be allowed to happen again.”

Abiodun urged security agencies to deploy all available resources to track down and prosecute the perpetrators, insisting that they must be “completely crushed” to prevent further bloodshed.

He also prayed for the repose of the victims’ souls and for strength and comfort for their families.