Gunmen Attack Nigerian Market, Leaving Over 30 Dead

A violent attack by gunmen on a market in northern Nigeria has resulted in the deaths of at least 30 people and left several others kidnapped. The incident occurred at the Kasuwan Daji market in Demo village around 16:30 local time on Saturday. According to police spokesperson Wasiu Abiodun, the assailants, commonly referred to as bandits, set fire to stalls and looted food items during their assault.

Eyewitnesses reported that the gunmen arrived on motorcycles, opening fire indiscriminately on market-goers. “Women and children were not spared,” said Dauda Shakulle, a survivor who was injured while attempting to escape the chaos. He expressed frustration over the lack of security presence in the area since the violence began. “We are currently recovering corpses,” he added, highlighting the grim aftermath of the attack.

This incident appears to be part of a broader pattern of violence that has escalated across northwestern and central Nigeria. The raids reportedly began on Friday, affecting nearby communities, including Agwarra and Borgu. Witness Khalid Pissa indicated that the death toll could reach as high as 40, reflecting the severity of the situation.

In response to the attack, Nigerian President Bola Tinubu issued a statement on Sunday, directing security forces to intensify operations in vulnerable areas, particularly near forested regions known for harboring bandits. “I have also directed that all abducted victims be urgently rescued,” Tinubu stated, emphasizing the need for immediate action against the perpetrators.

The Nigerian military has not yet provided a response to inquiries regarding the incident. This attack follows a disturbing trend of banditry in the region, which has seen armed groups conducting mass killings and kidnappings in rural communities. Just weeks prior, more than 300 children and staff from a Catholic school were abducted in central Nigeria, highlighting the ongoing security crisis.

Despite ongoing military operations, security forces have struggled to effectively contain the violence that has plagued these areas. The situation remains dire, with many residents calling for greater protection and support from authorities as they cope with the aftermath of such devastating attacks.