Suspected bandits stormed the Madaka market in Niger State on Thursday, leaving at least 21 people dead, including the village head, Umaru Bako.
The attack, which unfolded around 3:00 pm, reportedly began with a gunfire that made marketers flee.
Witnesses described the scene as utter chaos, with flames engulfing about 50 homes and businesses.
A number of automobiles and motorcycles were also reduced to charred remnants.
As of the filing of this report, the Niger State Police Command has not yet verified the details of the attack.
The attack in Madaka comes amidst a surge in violence across northern Nigeria.
The Northern Senators Forum has called on the Federal Government to take urgent action to address the crisis.
“We will not rest until the security situation is significantly improved and the perpetrators of these heinous acts are brought to justice,” said Senator Abdulaziz Yar’adua, chairman of the forum.
