From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
Residents of Woro and Nuku communities in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State, are in mourning following a deadly bandit attack that claimed several lives and led to the burning of houses on Tuesday evening.
The attackers were said to have stormed the communities in large numbers at about 6pm, unleashing violence that left families shattered and properties destroyed.
Eyewitnesses said many residents were caught unawares as the gunmen moved through the areas, setting houses ablaze and shooting sporadically.
A community leader in the area disclosed that about 10 people were killed during the invasion, while several homes were razed. He added that the attackers were suspected to be bandits hibernating in forests around the National Park in Borgu axis of neighbouring Niger State.
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“They came in their numbers and started shooting. Many of our people lost their lives, and several houses were burnt. The attack has thrown the communities into deep sorrow,” the community leader said.
The Kwara State Government confirmed the incident in a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Rafiu Ajakaye, noting that Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, was deeply saddened by the development.
According to the statement, the governor described the attack on innocent civilians as a cowardly act and expressed sympathy with the affected communities and families.
“Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, is saddened by the cowardly attack on civilians in Woro and Nuku communities of Kaiama Local Government Area. He condemns the attack, which he says is an expression of frustration by terrorist cells following the ongoing counterterrorism campaigns and the successes recorded so far,” the statement said.
The governor further noted that the assault was likely an attempt to distract security agencies who have continued to record successes against terrorist and kidnapping gangs across parts of the state.
He assured residents that security forces are improving on counterterrorism operations and vowed that the state would not relent in efforts to secure lives and property.
Governor AbdulRazaq extended his heartfelt condolences to the people of Woro and Nuku, particularly families who lost loved ones in the attack, and prayed for the repose of the souls of the victims.
