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By Lizzy Chirkpi
The United Nations, the United States and Türkiye have strongly condemned the deadly attack on communities in Kwara State that left at least 75 people dead and many others injured, with homes and properties destroyed.
In separate reactions, the international bodies described the assault as “heinous” and expressed sympathy with the victims and the Nigerian government.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres said in a post on X: “I strongly condemn the terrorist attack of 3 February in Kwara State, Nigeria.
“My heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims & to the people & government of Nigeria. I wish a speedy recovery to the injured.”
The United States Mission in Nigeria also denounced the violence, noting that the number of casualties may be higher.
“The United States condemns the horrific attack in Kwara State in Nigeria, which claimed the lives of more than 160 people, with the death toll still unconfirmed and many still unaccounted for,” the statement read.
“We express our deepest condolences to the families of those affected by this senseless violence. We welcome President Tinubu’s order to deploy security forces to protect villages in the area and his directive to federal and state officials to provide aid to the community and bring the perpetrators of this atrocity to justice.”
Türkiye’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it was “deeply saddened” by the incident.
“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 stated.
Gunmen had stormed Woro and nearby Nuku communities on Tuesday, killing scores of residents, setting shops ablaze and burning the residence of a traditional ruler, forcing many locals to flee. While authorities confirmed at least 75 deaths, some reports suggest the toll could be higher.
Following the attack, the Inspector-General of Police ordered the immediate deployment of tactical, operational and intelligence units to Kaiama Local Government Area. The Nigeria Police Force described the incident as tragic and said a manhunt is underway to apprehend the perpetrators.
Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq described the killings as “pure massacre” and confirmed that at least 75 victims had already been buried.
President Bola Tinubu has also directed the deployment of an army battalion to boost security in the state under Operation Savannah Shield.