By Abdoulaye Kay
The Presidency has ordered an immediate manhunt for terrorists responsible for the killing of at least 30 people at Kasuwan Daji market in Niger State.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in a statement issued on Sunday, 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 and apprehend the perpetrators and ensure they are brought swiftly to justice.
The President also ordered security agencies to urgently rescue women and children abducted during the attack on the Kasuwan Daji community.
The deadly assault, which left scores dead, was reportedly carried out by terrorists suspected to be fleeing from Sokoto and Zamfara states following a United States airstrike conducted on Christmas Eve.
Condemning the killings, President Tinubu described the attack on the market community as “unacceptable” and extended his condolences to the families of the victims, as well as to the government and people of Niger State.
“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,” the President said.
He warned that anyone found aiding, abetting, or enabling the attackers would also be held accountable under the law.
The President assured residents of Niger State that security agencies have been mandated to intensify operations around vulnerable communities, particularly areas close to forests believed to serve as hideouts for criminal elements.
He further urged Nigerians to remain united and avoid divisive rhetoric, stressing that national cohesion is critical 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 and reclaim peace and security in these communities,” Tinubu said.
The directive comes amid growing concerns over renewed terrorist activities in parts of Nigeria’s North-Central and North-West regions.
