Gunmen Attack Village in Northern Nigeria, Leaving Dozens Dead
MINNA, Nigeria — A violent attack by armed assailants on the village of Kasuwan-Daji in Niger state’s Borgu local government area has resulted in the deaths of at least 30 villagers, with several others reported missing, according to local police. The incident, which unfolded on Saturday evening, adds to a troubling pattern of violence plaguing the region.
Witnesses described how the attackers entered the village, indiscriminately opening fire on residents and setting the local market and multiple homes ablaze, confirmed state police spokesman Wasiu Abiodun. While official reports put the death toll at 30, residents suggest the number of fatalities could be as high as 37, as many individuals remain unaccounted for.
Reverend Father Stephen Kabirat, representing the Catholic Church of Kontagora Diocese, reported to local media outlets that the death toll exceeded 40 and that several individuals, including children, were abducted in the raid.
In response, Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu denounced the assault, instructing security forces to capture the perpetrators and ensure the safe return of the hostages. “These terrorists have tested the resolve of our country and its people,” stated Tinubu. “They must face the full consequences of their criminal actions. No matter who they are or what their intent is, they must be hunted down. In addition, those who aid, abet, or enable them will also be brought to justice.”
Survivors of the attack reported that the gunmen had been lurking in neighboring communities for about a week before launching their assault. The attack reportedly lasted up to three hours, with locals too frightened to retrieve the bodies without the presence of security forces. “The bodies are there (in Kasuwan-Daji village). If we don’t see any security, how can we go there?” one resident, who wished to remain anonymous for safety reasons, remarked.
Such attacks are common in Nigeria, Africa’s most populous country, often targeting remote communities with minimal security infrastructure. The recent attack occurred near Papiri, a community previously affected by a mass abduction of over 300 schoolchildren and their teachers in November.
Police reports indicate that the attackers emerged from the National Park Forest surrounding the Kabe district, highlighting a recurring issue where large, unmonitored forest reserves become sanctuaries for criminal gangs.
