Northern community leaders have revealed how the Southwest regional security outfit, Amotekun, allegedly carried out the lethal attacks on Hausa traders in Sasa market in Oyo state that claimed at least 10 lives, injured more than 70, over 30 missing, with over 6,000 displaced.
The crisis started on Thursday after a misunderstanding between a Hausa trader and a Yoruba woman. It escalated after the woman invited Yoruba thugs to avenge for her. A Yoruba thug was allegedly killed after the clash.
The chairman of Sasa Market Traders, Usman Yako, told Daily Nigerian that when they heard of the thug’s death at the hospital, they quickly informed the police, but they apparently refused to act promptly.
The carnage started when Amotekun came to the market, according to Mr Yako.
“When Amotekun came, they started shooting at Northerners. The hoodlums started setting houses ablaze, shooting and burning Hausa traders’ shops.
“It is apparent that it was a targeted attack on Hausas and other Northerners.
“The attack also spread to the Lagos-Ojo Expressway, which is not far from the market. Trailers belonging to Northerners were looted, burnt down, and the drivers slaughtered,” the chairman said.
“We were invited to Government House yesterday (Friday), and two of us were delegated. Nothing was actually done to avert the crisis and safeguard our lives.
“We have so far counted 10 bodies in the hospital. Over 70 people sustained gunshot injuries. 30 people, including my own brother, are missing,” Mr Yako said.
Reports say over 6,000 Northerners, mostly Hausas, are currently taking refuge at the residence of Sarkin Sasa, Alhaji Haruna Maiyasin.
“I have over 6,000 displaced people packed in my house. Many people have been killed, while others injured,” Maiyasin said in an interview with the newspaper.
