President Bola Tinubu has ordered a nationwide manhunt after a video showing kidnapped villagers from Niger State was posted online, prompting an urgent security response.
On Friday, armed attackers struck four remote villages—Dekara, Gidan Zana, Sabon Gida and Masaka—simultaneously during prayers. Local witnesses report that as many as 500 people may have been taken, though the official death toll remains unconfirmed and could be over 40.
The attackers, believed to be criminal bandits, have drawn residents into a forest corridor, where improvised explosive devices were reportedly set up. A teenage boy was killed when an explosion detonated as he tried to escape.
In a statement, President Tinubu condemned the “cowardly attack” and vowed that those responsible would be brought to justice. He also expressed condolences to the families of those killed.
While police and security forces raid the area, many trapped villagers have been spotted in the video, allowing families to confirm they are still alive. Others have fled to neighbouring states and even crossed into Benin. Survivors are receiving hospital treatment for serious injuries.
Experts warn that the incident further illustrates the growing threat of jihadist influence in the northwest and along the border region of Niger State.
