A Nigerian soldier identified as Sudik has been taken into custody after allegedly severing three fingers of a shoe vendor, Abdulrahman Salisu, following a dispute over payment on Sallah day.
The incident occurred at Abdulrahman’s shop near Jolly Bread, close to the Obasanjo Shopping Complex in Minna, Niger State.
According to the victim, Sudik visited his shop to buy a pair of shoes and claimed he had completed the transaction via bank transfer.
However, Abdulrahman insisted he had not received any payment notification.
Tensions quickly escalated, and in a fit of rage, the soldier reportedly pulled out a cutlass and attempted to strike Abdulrahman on the head while demanding his money.
In an attempt to shield himself, Abdulrahman raised his left hand, resulting in three of his fingers being severed.
As he cried out for help, Sudik and two other individuals who accompanied him fled the scene.
The attack was swiftly reported to the police, leading to Sudik’s arrest by security operatives.
Meanwhile, Abdulrahman is receiving medical attention at the IBB Specialist Hospital in Minna.
The incident has raised security concerns among traders around Jolly Bread, Mobil Roundabout, and the Obasanjo Shopping Complex.
Business owners have voiced fears over rising criminal activities, including armed robbery and thuggery, which they say are threatening their livelihoods.
Jolly Bread, known as a key newspaper distribution hub in Minna, has also felt the impact of insecurity, with vendors and agents expressing worries about attacks by criminals operating at all hours.
In response to the growing unrest, traders are urging the Niger State government to strengthen security measures to protect businesses and ensure their safety.