Families of victims have shared harrowing accounts of how terrorists massacred at least 75 people in the Woro and Nuku communities of Kaiama Local Government Area, Kwara State, leaving villages devastated and residents fleeing in terror.
According to Ali Umar, younger brother of the Woro traditional ruler, the attack occurred on Tuesday evening, February 4, 2026, just after 5 p.m., when armed men arrived on motorcycles and surrounded the community. “They started shooting from all sides so nobody could escape,” Umar recalled. Many villagers tried to flee, but those caught were shot on the spot, while others were rounded up and tied together at the village head’s palace before being executed.
Some of the victims were members of the royal household. Umar revealed that the chief’s wife, mother, and three children were abducted during the raid, while five other members remain unaccounted for. The attackers reportedly burned homes, shops, and public buildings, leaving the community in ruins.
Survivors described scenes of chaos and horror as terrified villagers ran into the bush, many sustaining gunshot or burn injuries. The trauma has left the area nearly deserted, with residents too scared to return without strong security presence.
Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq confirmed the deaths and noted that the victims were targeted because they refused to embrace extremist ideologies being promoted by the attackers. He described the massacre as a “cowardly act of terror” and pledged that the state government would strengthen security operations to prevent further attacks.
In response, President Bola Tinubu approved the deployment of a military battalion under Operation Savannah Shield to restore order and provide protection for affected communities. Injured survivors were rushed to General Hospital for medical attention, while others required referral to advanced care centers.
The Red Cross has joined relief efforts, providing emergency medical support, food, and psychological care to survivors traumatized by the violence. Local legislators and community leaders are urging enhanced security patrols, particularly along the Niger-Kwara border, to prevent further incursions by armed groups.
The massacre has sparked national outrage, highlighting persistent insecurity in North Central Nigeria, where extremist attacks have disrupted lives, destroyed property, and instilled fear in rural communities. Families continue to mourn their dead while appealing to authorities to ensure justice and safeguard the region from future atrocities.
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