Kasuwan-Daji Massacre: Atiku condemns violence, demands immediate action

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has condemned the recent terrorist attack on Kasuwan-Daji market in Demo community, Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State, which left over 30 people dead and several others abducted, including schoolchildren.

The attack occurred on Saturday, January 3, 2026, when gunmen reportedly emerged from the National Park in Borgu LGA, looted shops, carted away foodstuffs and valuables, and set the market ablaze. Residents said the assailants tied and killed dozens of people, operating without resistance until the early hours of Sunday.

The Niger State Police Command confirmed the attack, with Public Relations Officer Superintendent Wasiu Abiodun stating that a joint security team visited the scene and confirmed the fatalities and kidnappings. Efforts are ongoing to rescue the abducted victims.

Reacting to the tragedy, Atiku described the attacks on communities in Agwarra and Borgu as “heinous” and “deeply troubling.”

“I am deeply saddened by the heinous attacks on communities in Agwarra and Borgu Local Government Areas of Niger State, which have led to the loss of scores of innocent lives and the abduction of several residents, including schoolchildren,” Atiku said.

He extended condolences to the families of the deceased and pledged solidarity with the people and government of Niger State. The former Vice President also called on authorities to act swiftly to secure the safe and unconditional release of those kidnapped.

“At this painful moment, my thoughts and prayers are with the families of the deceased and those abducted, particularly the children. The primary duty of any government is the protection of lives and property. We must strengthen our security architecture, restore confidence in affected communities, and bring the perpetrators of these atrocities to justice,” he said