Following deadly attacks in Woro and nearby communities of Kaiama LGA, Kwara State, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) said it will strengthen military operations in the area while condemning the killing of innocent civilians.
Several residents of Woro were reportedly buried in mass graves on Wednesday after armed extremists struck the village on Tuesday evening. In response, President Bola Tinubu approved the immediate deployment of an Army battalion to restore security and protect residents.
In a statement, Director of Defence Information, Maj. Gen. Samaila Uba, said security forces would intensify efforts to apprehend the perpetrators and other terrorist elements across the country. He called for greater cooperation between citizens and security agencies to safeguard communities and national stability.
Uba praised the resilience of Woro villagers and neighbouring communities, noting that the attackers had initially attempted to hold a preaching and indoctrination session, which was rejected by the residents. Despite a two-week military deployment following the initial incident, the extremists returned weeks later, killing civilians.
“The Armed Forces mourn the loss of innocent lives and commend communities that resist violent coercion,” Uba said. He urged Nigerians to remain committed to the Constitution, reject extremist ideologies and uphold shared national values.
“The unity and resilience of the Nigerian people remain our strongest defence against those who seek to disrupt peace”, he added.
