Terrorists attack Kasuwan Daji market in Sukumbara village, Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State, killing dozens of traders and residents in a deadly assault that shocks the state and raises fresh security concerns.
According to the Niger State Government, the attackers storm the popular market and open fire indiscriminately, killing about 35 innocent people drawn from different ethnic and religious backgrounds, Mediaplusng.com reports. Victims include men and women who had gathered for routine trading activities at the busy market.
The state government explains that the terrorists allegedly relocate from the Kainji Lake National Park area following intensified military pressure and foreign air strikes on terrorist hideouts in parts of Sokoto and Kwara states. The attackers reportedly move through several communities before carrying out the massacre in Borgu.
In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Mr. Obed Nana, the government confirms that the terrorists also kill several people earlier in Shanga Local Government Area of Kebbi State before crossing into Niger State, Mediaplusng.com understands. The group allegedly carries out additional attacks in parts of Rijau and Agwara local government areas, leaving more casualties in their trail.
The statement further reveals that the attackers raid a police outpost in Shafacci village and later invade a Catholic missionary school in Sukumbara village. During the attack, they cart away two motorcycles and vandalise school property, although no casualties are recorded at the school.
The Niger State Government describes the attack as a tragic and senseless act of violence against innocent citizens. Authorities say security agencies are already working with federal forces to track the attackers and prevent further assaults on communities in the state.
Residents of the affected areas are urged to remain calm but vigilant, while promptly reporting suspicious movements to security agencies. The government reassures citizens that decisive steps are being taken to restore peace and strengthen security across vulnerable communities.
As investigations continue, community leaders and civil society groups call for increased military presence around border communities and major markets to prevent a repeat of such deadly attacks.
