Akpoti-Uduaghan Decries Niger Market Massacre, Demands Swift Justice
Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 
ABUJA, Nigeria – Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan condemns a deadly attack on a Niger State market, calling it a grim symbol of Nigeria’s worsening security crisis and urging swift justice for victims.
At least 42 people, including women, are killed after gunmen storm Kasuwan Daji Market in the Demo community of Borgu Local Government Area on Saturday, January 3, 2026. Several traders and residents are also abducted during the assault, according to local reports.
Witnesses say the attackers arrive in large numbers, open fire indiscriminately, set parts of the market ablaze and flee with captives, leaving devastation in their wake. The market serves as a major economic hub for surrounding communities.
In a statement issued Monday in Abuja by her media aide, Mike Idoko, Akpoti-Uduaghan describes the incident as “heartbreaking and senseless,” noting that innocent Nigerians are attacked while pursuing lawful livelihoods.
“This tragic attack is a painful reminder of the fragile security situation facing rural communities,” the senator says. “Markets should be places of commerce and safety, not scenes of terror.”
She extends condolences to bereaved families and the people of Niger State, praying for comfort and resilience for those affected. The lawmaker also expresses concern over the destruction of the market and the abductions, warning that such violence deepens poverty and disrupts local economies.
Akpoti-Uduaghan calls on security agencies to deploy intelligence-led operations to arrest the perpetrators and prevent further attacks on vulnerable communities.
The Niger State Police Command confirms the incident, while President Bola Tinubu directs security agencies to track down those responsible and rescue all abducted victims.
About the Author
Mirian Gom 
Korede Abdullah 
Oluwafunbi Bello