President Bola Tinubu has deployed an army battalion to Kwara State following a deadly attack by gunmen in Woro village, which killed at least 162 people.
The attack, reportedly carried out by Boko Haram terrorists, has raised concerns about insecurity in the country.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, who visited the affected area, described the attack as an “unacceptable violation of people’s right to peaceful practice of their faith”.
The government has launched Operation Savannah Shield to protect vulnerable communities and bring the attackers to justice.
The attack, which occurred on February 3, was reportedly a retaliation against the community’s rejection of the terrorists’ extremist ideology. The gunmen also abducted several women and children, and burned homes and shops.
Eyewitnesses described the scene as “devastating”, with bodies scattered across the village and survivors fleeing for their lives. “It was a massacre,” said one survivor. “They came in large numbers, shooting and burning everything in their path.”
The international community has condemned the attack, with the United States, Turkey, and the United Nations expressing their condolences and calling for the perpetrators to be brought to justice.
“This heinous act of violence is unacceptable and must be condemned in the strongest terms,” said a statement from the US Embassy in Abuja. “We stand in solidarity with the people of Nigeria and call for the perpetrators to be held accountable.“
Kwara State has experienced several attacks since 2025, with the latest one being the Woro village attack on February 3, 2026, which killed at least 162 people.
The attack is believed to be carried out by Boko Haram terrorists, specifically the Sadiku-led faction, as a retaliation against the community’s rejection of their extremist ideology.
It’s worth noting that Kwara State has been experiencing insecurity issues, with various attacks and kidnappings reported in recent months.
In December 2025, there were reports of attacks and abductions in the state, with at least 47 people killed and 35 others abducted between December 25, 2025, and January 2, 2026.
The government has assured the public that it is doing everything possible to bring the perpetrators to justice and ensure the safe release of those abducted. However, many are questioning the effectiveness of the government’s security measures, given the frequency and brutality of these attacks.
As the nation mourns the loss of life, questions are being raised about the government’s ability to protect its citizens and maintain law and order.
The attack on Woro village is a stark reminder of the security challenges facing Nigeria, and the need for a more effective and coordinated response to terrorism and banditry.
