A Nigerian soldier, identified as Sudik, has been arrested for a gruesome attack on a shoe trader, Abdulrahman Salisu, following a payment dispute on Sallah Day in Minna, Niger State.
The shocking incident occurred at Abdulrahman’s shop near Jolly Bread, close to the Obasanjo Shopping Complex. According to eyewitnesses, Sudik had visited the shop to purchase a pair of shoes and claimed to have made payment via bank transfer. However, Abdulrahman insisted that he had not received a payment alert, leading to a heated disagreement.
In a sudden and violent turn, the enraged soldier reportedly drew a cutlass and attempted to strike Abdulrahman on the head, demanding his money. In a desperate attempt to defend himself, the trader raised his left hand, only for three of his fingers to be severed by the brutal swing of the weapon.
As Abdulrahman screamed in agony, Sudik and two accomplices who had accompanied him to the scene fled. Passersby and fellow traders rushed to his aid and immediately reported the attack to security authorities.
Law enforcement officers swiftly launched an investigation, leading to Sudik’s arrest. Meanwhile, the victim is currently receiving medical treatment at the IBB Specialist Hospital in Minna, where doctors are battling to manage his severe injuries.
The brutal attack has sent shockwaves through the business community in Minna, particularly among traders around Jolly Bread, Mobil Roundabout, and the Obasanjo Shopping Complex. Many shop owners have expressed deep concerns over rising insecurity in the area, citing increasing cases of thuggery, armed robbery, and violent attacks that threaten their livelihoods.
Jolly Bread, a major newspaper distribution hub in the city, has also been affected by these security concerns, with vendors, agents, and sales representatives fearing for their safety as criminal elements operate with growing audacity.
In response to the incident, traders and business owners are calling on the Niger State government to intensify security measures to curb the rising threats. Many lament that they now live in constant fear while carrying out their daily activities, urging authorities to take immediate action to restore safety and order in the area.
As the investigation continues, citizens await justice for Abdulrahman, hoping that the arrest of the rogue soldier will serve as a deterrent to further acts of lawlessness and brutality.
PIONEER NEWS 