Bandits Launch Deadly Assault on Kwara Communities
In a devastating incident that has shocked residents, armed bandits attacked the Woro and Nuku communities located within the Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State. The violent assault resulted in the tragic deaths of ten residents and the destruction of multiple houses through arson.
Timeline and Details of the Attack
The attack unfolded around 6:00 pm on Tuesday evening, February 3, 2026. According to eyewitness accounts, approximately 200 gunmen stormed the villages, creating widespread panic as they fired shots indiscriminately. Villagers were forced to flee for their safety amidst the chaos.
A community leader from the area confirmed the grim toll, stating that about ten people lost their lives and numerous homes were set ablaze. The bandits are suspected to have originated from the forest of the National Park in Borgu, Niger State, before invading Woro community in large numbers.
Eyewitness Accounts and Immediate Aftermath
Eyewitnesses described a harrowing scene as the gunmen moved systematically from house to house, setting buildings on fire and compelling residents to abandon their properties. Several villagers were caught in crossfire while attempting to escape, while others were reportedly killed inside their homes.
Another resident of Kaiama, Idris Mohammed, provided additional details about the aftermath, revealing that about six corpses were currently lying in the palace of the Emir of Woro, Alhaji Saliu Bio Umar.
Government Response and Official Statements
The Kwara State government acknowledged the development through an official statement released on Wednesday by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Rafiu Ajakaye. Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq expressed profound sadness over what he described as a cowardly attack on civilians.
The Governor's statement contained several key points:
- Condemnation of the attack as a cowardly expression of frustration by terrorist cells
- Recognition of ongoing counterterrorism operations and successes recorded across the state
- Assessment that the attack was intended to distract security forces who have been successfully hunting down terrorist and kidnapping gangs
- Heartfelt condolences to the affected communities and families of the victims
Political and Security Implications
The lawmaker representing Kaiama at the Kwara State House of Assembly, Halidu Danbaba, confirmed the incident and made an urgent appeal to both state and federal governments. He specifically requested that the recent military action in Kwara South be extended to Kaiama, particularly considering the resumption of schools in the affected areas.
This tragic event highlights the ongoing security challenges facing rural communities in Nigeria and underscores the need for continued vigilance and enhanced security measures to protect vulnerable populations from such violent attacks.
