The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) in Abuja has attributed the mass killings in Woro and neighbouring communities in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State to terrorists enraged by the villagers’ refusal to submit to ideological indoctrination.
In a statement issued Thursday and signed by Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Samaila Uba, the military described the Tuesday attack as a “cowardly terrorist assault” that claimed innocent lives in retaliation for the community’s rejection of extremist preaching.
According to the DHQ:
“The assailants had earlier requested to conduct preaching and indoctrination sessions, which the villagers refused.”
The military revealed it had received prior intelligence about the threat and deployed troops to the area, conducting robust patrols, surveillance, and other security measures for approximately two weeks.
“However, weeks after the troops withdrew, the cowardly terrorists returned to kill innocent citizens in protest and in a bid to terrorise inhabitants and others,” the statement said.
Over 170 residents were killed in the assault, which involved mass executions, arson on homes and shops, and abductions.
The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) commended the resilience of Woro and surrounding communities for standing firm in defence of their values and constitutional loyalty despite intimidation.
“The AFN mourns with the families of those who have lost loved ones in these and other similar brutal attacks on defenceless citizens defending community values and freedom across Nigeria,” the DHQ stated.
It urged Nigerians to remain committed to the Constitution and resist attempts by violent extremist groups to impose “twisted beliefs through terror and intimidation.”
The military called for stronger collaboration between citizens and security agencies, describing unity and resilience as Nigeria’s most effective defence against terrorism.
The DHQ reaffirmed its commitment to intensifying operations—working with other security agencies—to track down, apprehend, and prosecute those responsible for the Kaiama massacre and similar acts nationwide.
Amnesty International Condemns Escalating Violence
In a separate statement issued Thursday, Amnesty International condemned the rising wave of killings and abductions across Nigeria, warning that persistent bloodshed reflects a failure by authorities to protect lives and property.
Amnesty described Tuesday, February 3, 2026, as a “Bloody Tuesday,” citing coordinated deadly attacks in Woro and Nuku (Kwara State), Doma Tafoki (Katsina State), and Abande (Benue State), where scores of residents were reportedly killed.
“Alarming escalation of attacks, abductions for ransom and frequent killings across Nigeria have left people feeling more unsafe, showing utter failure of the Nigerian authorities to protect lives and properties,” Amnesty said.
