President Tinubu orders manhunt after deadly attacks and mass kidnappings in Niger state

President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria has initiated a manhunt following deadly attacks and mass kidnappings in Niger state. The incidents occurred last Friday in four remote villages, where armed kidnappers targeted mosques during prayer. Local reports suggest up to 500 people may have been abducted, though this number has yet to be confirmed.

The kidnappers posted a video on social media, purportedly showing the abducted individuals seated in a forest. Authorities have previously suspected the attackers to be bandits, known for kidnapping and looting for ransom across Nigeria. The gunmen were reportedly dressed in military-style attire. Over 40 people were reportedly killed in the attacks, though the exact death toll is yet to be verified.

A local youth leader recognized several community members in the video, providing some relief to families. Many residents have fled their homes for refuge in neighboring states or across the border in Benin. Some survivors are receiving medical treatment, including those with severe injuries. Additionally, attackers planted improvised explosive devices in the affected communities, resulting in at least one fatality during an attempted escape.

President Tinubu condemned the killings and abductions, expressing his condolences to the affected families. The attack highlights the ongoing insecurity in the Borgu region, which shares borders with Kebbi, Kwara, and Benin states, as well as neighboring Benin. Earlier this month, police reported that 145 people were rescued from abductions in four other villages in the area.

Local officials have expressed concerns about the growing presence of jihadist groups operating in north-western Nigeria and along the border region, as some fighters have recently entered communities and imposed religious restrictions on residents.