ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- The United Nations, the United States and Turkiye have condemned the deadly attack on communities in Kwara State, describing the killings as heinous and pledging support for Nigeria’s fight against terrorism.
Gunmen had on Tuesday attacked Woro and neighbouring Nuku communities in Kaiama Local Government Area, killing at least 75 people, setting shops and a traditional ruler’s residence ablaze, and forcing residents to flee their homes.
In separate statements, the international bodies expressed outrage over the violence, which also left several residents injured.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, in a post on X, strongly condemned the attack, describing it as a terrorist act.
“I strongly condemn the terrorist attack of 3 February in Kwara State, Nigeria. My heartfelt condolences go to the families of the victims and to the people and government of Nigeria. I wish a speedy recovery to the injured,” Guterres said.
The United States Mission in Nigeria also denounced the violence, describing it as horrific and senseless.
“The United States condemns the horrific attack in Kwara State, Nigeria, which claimed the lives of more than 160 people, with the death toll still unconfirmed and many unaccounted for,” the mission said, while noting discrepancies in casualty figures.
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It extended condolences to affected families and welcomed President Bola Tinubu’s directive for the deployment of security forces and the provision of humanitarian assistance to the affected communities.
“We welcome President Tinubu’s order to deploy security forces to protect villages in the area and his directive to ensure aid reaches victims and that perpetrators are brought to justice,” the statement added.
Turkiye, through its Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said it was deeply saddened by the attack and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Nigeria against terrorism.
“We strongly condemn this heinous attack and extend our condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and to the people of Nigeria. Türkiye will continue to support Nigeria in its fight against terrorism,” the ministry said.
Meanwhile, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered the immediate deployment of tactical, operational and intelligence assets to Kaiama Local Government Area.
The Nigeria Police Force condemned the incident as tragic and confirmed that a manhunt is underway to arrest responsible.
Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, described the attack as a “pure massacre” and confirmed that at least 75 victims had already been buried.
President Tinubu has also ordered the deployment of an army battalion to further reinforce security in the state under Operation Savannah Shield.
Political groups, including a faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Northern States Governors’ Forum, have equally condemned the killings, warning that the incident reflects worsening insecurity in the region.