The Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has strongly condemned the deadly terrorist attack on Kasuwan Daji Market in Niger State, describing it as a tragic reflection of Nigeria’s worsening security crisis.
The attack, which occurred on January 3, 2026, in the Demo community of Borgu Local Government Area, reportedly left more than 42 people dead, including women, while several others were abducted. Gunmen were said to have opened fire on traders and residents, set parts of the market ablaze, and fled with an unspecified number of victims.
In a statement released on Monday in Abuja, Akpoti-Uduaghan described the incident as “heartbreaking and senseless,” lamenting the loss of innocent lives.
“My heart is heavy as I mourn the innocent men and women who were brutally murdered at Kasuwan Daji Market,” the senator said. “These were ordinary Nigerians going about their lawful activities, only to be cut down by evil forces with no regard for human life.”
She extended her condolences to the families of the victims, praying for strength and comfort as they grapple with the devastating loss.
“I sympathise profoundly with the families who have suffered this cruel loss. No words can truly heal such pain, but I pray that God grants them the fortitude to bear these irreparable losses,” she added.
The senator also drew attention to the broader impact of the attack on the community, noting that the destruction of the market and the abduction of residents have severely disrupted livelihoods and deepened communal trauma.
“The burning of the market and the kidnapping of innocent citizens further destabilise these communities and cripple local economies. This cycle of violence must not be allowed to continue unchecked,” she said.
Calling for urgent intervention, Akpoti-Uduaghan urged the Federal Government and security agencies to swiftly apprehend and prosecute those responsible for the attack.
“Our people deserve protection, and criminals terrorising our communities must be confronted with the full weight of the law,” she stated.
She also emphasised the need for a proactive, intelligence-driven security strategy, particularly for rural and vulnerable communities, warning against the danger of normalising recurring violence.
“Such tragedies must never become routine. The safety of Nigerians must remain a national priority,” the senator concluded.
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