Deadly Attack at Kasuwan Daji Market in Niger State

On January 3, 2026, gunmen attacked the Kasuwan Daji market in Demo village, Niger State, Nigeria, resulting in a significant loss of life and numerous abductions. Reports indicate that at least 30 to 50 people were killed, with many others taken captive during the assault. The attackers, referred to as bandits, arrived on motorcycles and opened fire indiscriminately on market-goers, subsequently looting and burning stalls. Eyewitness accounts describe a chaotic scene as traders and shoppers fled in panic.

Reuters

In the wake of the attack, Nigerian President Bola Tinubu ordered a nationwide security crackdown. He directed top security officials, including the Minister of Defence and the Inspector-General of Police, to pursue the attackers and ensure they face justice. Tinubu emphasized the need for a united front against such violence, stating, "These terrorists have tested the resolve of our country and its people. They must face the full consequences of their criminal actions." He also called for the urgent rescue of abducted victims and intensified security operations in vulnerable communities, particularly those near forested areas believed to harbor the assailants.

Nigeria’s Tinubu orders massive security crackdown after Kasuwan Daji market attack kills 50Tinubu orders nationwide security dragnet after Niger attacks as death toll risesReuters

The attack on Kasuwan Daji is part of a broader trend of escalating violence attributed to armed groups in northwestern and central Nigeria. This region has seen a surge in banditry, characterized by mass killings and kidnappings, particularly in rural areas. Local sources indicate that the violence has been ongoing for over a week, with bandits exploiting the perceived weak security presence in remote villages. The Nigerian military has struggled to contain these incidents despite ongoing operations.

Reuters

Community leaders and residents have expressed frustration over the lack of adequate security measures in their areas. Many have called for urgent federal intervention, warning that without a stronger security presence, more villages could fall victim to similar attacks. Local sources reported that some residents fled into nearby bushes for safety amid fears of further violence. Reverend Father Stephen Kabirat, from the Catholic Diocese of Kontagora, confirmed the scale of the violence, stating that more than 40 people had been killed, with many others abducted.

Tinubu orders nationwide security dragnet after Niger attacks as death toll rises

There is a discrepancy in the reported death toll from the attack, with police spokesperson Wasiu Abiodun confirming over 30 fatalities, while other sources suggest the number could be as high as 50. Additionally, the exact number of abducted individuals remains unspecified, highlighting gaps in the information available regarding the incident.

Reuters

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

Nigeria’s Tinubu orders massive security crackdown after Kasuwan Daji market attack kills 50

• “We must stand together as one people and confront these monsters in unison.” — Bola Tinubu, President of Nigeria

Nigeria’s Tinubu orders massive security crackdown after Kasuwan Daji market attack kills 50

• “Residents and community leaders have renewed calls for urgent and sustained federal intervention, warning that without a stronger security presence, more villages could come under attack.” — Local Community Leader

Tinubu orders nationwide security dragnet after Niger attacks as death toll rises

The attack at Kasuwan Daji market underscores the urgent need for effective security measures in Nigeria's vulnerable regions, as the government grapples with rising violence and public safety concerns.

Nigeria’s Tinubu orders massive security crackdown after Kasuwan Daji market attack kills 50