Residents of Woro community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State have escaped to neighbouring Niger State after a deadly terrorist assault reportedly claimed more than 176 lives earlier in the week.
The attackers reportedly struck on Tuesday evening and continued into the following morning, forcing families to flee their homes in fear, leaving behind most of their belongings.
A video circulating online and seen on Saturday shows displaced residents who found refuge in Wawa town, Niger State, gathered along a roadside. Several vehicles believed to have transported them from Kwara State were seen parked close by.
In the footage, some of the displaced persons were seated on plastic chairs beneath a makeshift shelter, while others sat on the bare ground. Many appeared visibly tired, with women and children clustered together.
Confirming the development, the Special Assistant to the Chairman of Kaiama Local Government Area, ZulQharnain Musa, told Sunday PUNCH that Woro community had been completely abandoned following the attack.
“As of Saturday, the entire community has been deserted. Residents have fled to nearby areas, including Niger State, Kaiama town, and Baruten, especially those who escaped through the forest,” Musa said.
He added that security operatives have been deployed to the area to restore order, noting that an army battalion has been stationed in the community on the directive of President Bola Tinubu.
However, despite the military presence, Musa explained that many residents are still reluctant to return home due to fears of further attacks and concerns over their safety, as families continue to seek shelter in surrounding communities.
