Tinubu Launches Nationwide Manhunt After Deadly Niger State Terror Attack

In a forceful response to the Kasuwan-Daji market massacre in Niger State, Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered an all-out manhunt for the terrorists responsible for the attack that left over 30 villagers dead and many more abducted. The directive marks a significant escalation in efforts to curb escalating insecurity in parts of northern Nigeria.

President Tinubu’s decisive actions were outlined in a statement released by Bayo Onanuga, his special adviser on information and strategy, on Sunday. Tinubu has tasked top security officials — including the Minister of Defence, the Chief of Defence Staff, the Inspector-General of Police, and the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS) — with tracking down those behind the brutal assault and ensuring they are brought to justice.

What Happened in Kasuwan-Daji

The violence erupted on Saturday afternoon at the Kasuwan-Daji market in the Demo community, Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State. Armed assailants, reportedly emerging from nearby forested areas near Kainji Lake National Park, stormed the bustling market, firing indiscriminately and burning stalls, property, and food supplies.

According to local accounts and police confirmation, more than 30 people including men, women, and possibly children were killed in the attack. Many residents were also kidnapped, adding fear and uncertainty to an already traumatized community. The assailants looted goods worth millions of naira before disappearing into the surrounding bushland.

Tinubu’s Strong Condemnation and Orders

President Tinubu condemned the massacre in unequivocal terms, describing the assailants’ actions as a “test of the nation’s resolve.” He vowed that “no matter who they are or what their intent is, they must be hunted down,” and stressed that those who aid, abet or enable the attackers will also face justice under Nigerian law.

In addition to the manhunt, Tinubu directed security agencies to immediately rescue all abducted victims. He also ordered intensified operations in vulnerable areas especially communities near forest hideouts that have long been exploited by criminal networks.

The President extended deep condolences to the families of the victims and to the government and people of Niger State, reaffirming that the federal government will not abandon communities beset by violence.

Regional and Local Responses

The attack has drawn strong condemnation from local officials. Governor Umaru Bago of Niger State expressed sorrow over the loss of lives and confirmed that a joint security team is actively pursuing the attackers to ensure the safe rescue of kidnapped residents.

Additionally, the Northern States Governors’ Forum backed President Tinubu’s orders, calling the incident a “cruel assault” on innocent citizens that disrupts peace and economic activity. The governors urged stronger collaboration between federal and state security forces to protect vulnerable communities.

A Pattern of Violence

The Kasuwan-Daji attack comes amid a troubling rise in violent incidents in Niger State and other parts of northern Nigeria. In late 2025, more than 300 pupils and teachers were abducted from St. Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area, although most were later released after concerted rescue efforts.

Such brazen attacks have spotlighted ongoing security challenges, including banditry, kidnapping, and terror attacks often attributed to criminal groups exploiting remote forests and limited state presence.
What This Means for Nigeria

President Tinubu’s orders signal a no-nonsense stance on national security as his administration enters 2026. By mobilizing the military, police, and intelligence services to act swiftly, the government aims to disrupt terror networks and reassure citizens that the state is committed to protecting lives and property.

The success of the manhunt and rescue operations will be a crucial test for Nigeria’s security architecture and could set the tone for broader strategies to stem violence across the country’s most vulnerable regions. For now, communities across Niger State remain on high alert as security agencies intensify efforts to bring perpetrators to justice.