Scores of Kwara attack survivors battle for recovery

More than 50 survivors of the deadly attack on Woro community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State are currently undergoing treatment in various hospitals, as authorities intensify security and relief efforts in the troubled area.

The victims sustained different degrees of injuries, including gunshot wounds, during the assault which also spread to neighbouring Nuku community, leaving dozens dead and several properties destroyed.

Senator representing Kwara North Senatorial District, Sadiq Umar, during a visit to some of the injured victims, described the incident as deeply disturbing and heartbreaking. He sympathised with affected families and assured the survivors of continued support as they undergo treatment and recovery.

The lawmaker commended President Bola Tinubu for ordering the deployment of security personnel under Operation Savannah Shield, a special military operation aimed at restoring calm and tracking down those responsible for the killings.

He also praised Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for what he described as a prompt response, particularly the directive to the State Emergency Management Agency to provide relief materials and emergency support to displaced and affected residents.

Umar called for sustained and expanded security operations across Kwara North, warning that persistent security threats in parts of the senatorial district require continuous surveillance and intervention.

Meanwhile, the Inspector-General of Police has ordered the immediate deployment of tactical, operational and intelligence assets to Kaiama Local Government Area to support ongoing security operations and investigations.

The Nigeria Police Force condemned the attack, describing it as tragic and unacceptable, while confirming that a manhunt is ongoing to apprehend those behind the assault.

Gunmen had attacked Woro and neighbouring Nuku communities earlier in the week, killing at least 75 residents, setting shops and a traditional ruler’s residence ablaze, and forcing many villagers to flee to safer locations.

Governor AbdulRazaq earlier described the incident as a “pure massacre” and confirmed that at least 75 victims had been buried, even as security agencies continue operations aimed at restoring lasting peace in the affected communities.