The Niger State Police Command has apprehended a serving soldier, identified as Private Sadiq Sani, for allegedly attacking and severing three fingers of a businessman, Abdulrahman Salihu, during a violent altercation in Minna, the state capital.
The incident, which occurred on Eid-el-Fitr day, reportedly took place at Salihu’s shoe shop located in the Makera area of Minna. According to eyewitness accounts, Private Sani had visited the store to purchase a pair of shoes. After settling on his choice, he requested Salihu’s bank account number to initiate a transfer payment.
However, it was later discovered that the soldier allegedly sent a fake bank transfer alert. Upon realizing the payment had not gone through, Salihu withheld the shoes and insisted on confirming the transaction before releasing the item.
The situation escalated rapidly when Sani, in a fit of rage, allegedly pulled out a sharp knife and attacked the businessman. Salihu sustained deep lacerations, and three of his fingers were reportedly severed as he attempted to shield himself from the blow. The soldier then fled the scene and returned to his residence in the Limawa area of Minna.
The spokesperson for the Niger State Police Command, SP Wasiu Abiodun, confirmed the incident in an official statement. He disclosed that on March 30, 2025, around 3:00 p.m., Salihu, aged 26 and a resident of Abdulsalam Quarters, was brought to the Central Police Station in Minna with severe injuries.
“Preliminary investigations revealed that a dispute broke out over the authenticity of the payment,” SP Abiodun stated. “The suspect attempted to strike the victim on the head with a knife. In a defensive move, the victim raised his hand, which led to the severing of three of his fingers.”
Police operatives later tracked down and arrested the suspect at his residence. He was taken into custody alongside another individual believed to be connected to the incident. Both suspects have since been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Minna for further interrogation and possible prosecution.
The case has drawn public attention, with many calling for justice for the victim and disciplinary action against the soldier if found guilty. Meanwhile, Salihu is currently receiving medical treatment for his injuries.
