The United Nations, the United States, and Türkiye have strongly condemned the deadly attack on communities in Kwara State, Nigeria, describing the violence as “heinous” and pledging support for Nigeria’s fight against terrorism.
At least 75 people were killed on Tuesday when gunmen attacked Woro and the neighbouring Nuku communities in Kaiama Local Government Area.
The assailants reportedly set houses and shops ablaze, destroyed the residence of a traditional ruler, and forced scores of residents to flee their homes. Some reports suggest the death toll may be significantly higher.
In a post on X, UN Secretary-General António Guterres condemned the attack and expressed sympathy for the victims. “I strongly condemn the terrorist attack of 3 February in Kwara State, Nigeria,” he wrote. “My heartfelt condolences go to the families of the victims, and to the people and government of Nigeria. I wish a speedy recovery to the injured.”
The United States Mission in Nigeria also denounced the assault, describing it as horrific and senseless. In a statement, the mission said the attack had claimed the lives of more than 160 people, noting that the exact death toll remained unconfirmed, with many still unaccounted for.
The US expressed deep condolences to affected families and welcomed President Bola Tinubu’s directive to deploy security forces to protect vulnerable communities, provide humanitarian assistance, and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
Türkiye joined the international outcry, saying it was “deeply saddened” by the attack. In a statement issued by its Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Turkish government strongly condemned the killings and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Nigeria’s counter-terrorism efforts.
“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 statement said.
In response to the attack, the Inspector-General of Police ordered the immediate deployment of tactical, operational, and intelligence assets to Kaiama Local Government Area.
The Nigeria Police Force described the incident as tragic and confirmed that a manhunt is underway to apprehend the perpetrators.
Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq described the killings as a “pure massacre,” confirming that at least 75 victims had already been buried.
President Bola Tinubu has also ordered the deployment of an army battalion to reinforce security in the state under Operation Savannah Shield.
Meanwhile, political groups, including a faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Northern States Governors’ Forum, have condemned the attack, describing it as barbaric and a grim reminder of the worsening insecurity in the region.
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