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By Abdullah Ahmed
Suspected bandits on Tuesday evening invaded Woro village in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State, unleashing violence that threw the community into panic and mass displacement.
Eyewitnesses said the attackers stormed the village in large numbers, firing sporadically and forcing residents to flee for safety.
Several houses were set ablaze during the assault, including the village palace and the office of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), leading to extensive destruction of property.
Preliminary reports indicate that more than 100 people may have been killed, though the exact casualty figure remains uncertain as many residents are still missing and others reportedly sustained varying degrees of injuries.
The tense security situation has continued to hamper efforts to ascertain the full extent of the damage.
The attackers were said to have renewed their assault in the early hours of Wednesday, worsening fears among residents.
Many villagers have since sought refuge in neighbouring communities and nearby bushes to escape the violence.
However, normalcy has been restored following the deployment of soldiers and forest guards to Woro and Nuku communities.
Radio Nigeria gathered that security operatives have taken full control of the affected areas to prevent further attacks.
Sources revealed that the assailants, believed to have infiltrated the communities from neighbouring villages in Niger State, had earlier been preaching against the Nigerian Constitution before launching the attacks.
Reacting to the incident, Kwara State Governor, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, expressed deep sadness over the loss of lives in Woro and Nuku communities.
In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaye, the Governor condemned the attack, describing it as a cowardly act by terrorist elements frustrated by sustained counterterrorism operations across the state.
Governor AbdulRazaq assured residents that security agencies remain resolute and will not relent in their efforts to protect lives and property.
He also extended heartfelt condolences to families who lost loved ones during the attack.
