By Parrot Newspaper # Soldier Hacks Off Shoe Seller’s Fingers in Minna Over Payment Dispute
A Shocking Attack on Sallah Day
Residents of Minna, the Niger State capital, are reeling in shock after a violent altercation between a soldier and a shoe seller escalated into a brutal attack. The horrifying incident occurred near Jolly Bread on Sallah Day, leaving traders and business owners in fear.
According to eyewitnesses, a soldier identified as Sudik had visited the shop of Abdulrahman Salisu to purchase a pair of shoes. However, what should have been a routine transaction turned into a nightmare.
The Payment Dispute That Turned Bloody
After selecting his footwear, Sudik claimed to have completed the payment via bank transfer. But when Abdulrahman checked his account, he saw no confirmation of the transaction. Standing his ground, he insisted on receiving payment before letting the soldier leave.
Rather than resolve the matter peacefully, Sudik reportedly lost his temper. In a shocking twist, he pulled out a cutlass and aimed a deadly strike at Abdulrahman’s head. Instinctively, the shoe seller raised his hand to defend himself—only for the blade to slice through his fingers, severing three of them instantly.
Chaos and Aftermath
Abdulrahman’s screams of agony drew attention, but before bystanders could intervene, Sudik and two other men who had accompanied him fled the scene. The bloodied victim rushed to the nearest police station to report the attack.
Authorities have since confirmed that Sudik has been apprehended, while Abdulrahman is receiving urgent medical care at the IBB Specialist Hospital in Minna. Doctors are working to manage his injuries, though the long-term impact remains uncertain.
Traders Speak Out: ‘We Live in Fear’
The horrifying assault has reignited security concerns among traders and shop owners in Minna. Many have spoken out about the rising cases of violence, theft, and armed robbery in commercial areas such as Mobil Roundabout, Jolly Bread, and Obasanjo Shopping Complex.
“We are no longer safe,” lamented one trader. “We wake up every day not knowing if we’ll return home unhurt. This attack on Abdulrahman is just one of many we’ve seen.”
In light of the incident, business owners are calling on the state government and security agencies to step up protection measures. They demand better surveillance, more patrols, and swift justice for victims of attacks.
A Call for Justice and Reform
Beyond the immediate concern of Abdulrahman’s medical recovery, this incident raises broader questions about security, abuse of power, and the safety of civilians in their everyday dealings. Should soldiers and security personnel be subjected to stricter behavioral regulations? How can business owners protect themselves from violent customers?
As the case unfolds, many hope that justice will not only be served for Abdulrahman but that concrete actions will be taken to prevent such horrors in the future.