President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered a full-scale manhunt for terrorists responsible for a deadly attack on communities in Niger State, which left more than 40 people dead and several others abducted.

In a statement personally signed on Sunday, the President said he had directed the Minister of Defence, the Chief of Defence Staff, the Service Chiefs, the Inspector-General of Police, and the Director-General of the Department of State Services to track down those behind the Kasuwan Daji attack and ensure they are brought to justice.

“These terrorists have tested the resolve of our country and its people. They must face the full consequences of their criminal actions,” the President said.

He warned that no individual or group involved would be spared, adding that anyone who aids or supports the attackers would also be held accountable.

President Tinubu further ordered the immediate rescue of all abducted victims and directed security agencies to intensify operations around vulnerable communities, particularly those located near forests.

Calling for national unity, the President urged Nigerians to stand together against insecurity, stressing that peace must be restored to the affected communities. He also prayed for the repose of the souls of those killed in the attack.

The directive followed coordinated attacks on Saturday afternoon in Agwara and Borgu Local Government Areas of Niger State.

Security sources said the attackers reportedly emerged from the National Park forest along Kabe District before storming Kasuwan Daji market in Demo Village.

The attack, which began around 4:30 pm, lasted several hours, during which shops were looted, food items carted away, and the market set ablaze.

While official figures initially put the death toll at over 30, residents and community leaders confirmed that more than 40 people were killed during the raid.

Security forces have since been deployed to the area, and efforts to rescue abducted victims are ongoing.