Vice-President Kashim Shettima has said the people killed in the recent attack on Nuku and Woro communities in Kaiama LGA, Kwara State, were peaceful members of communities who practised Islam in a tolerant and harmonious way.
Gatekeepers News reports that Shettima led a federal government delegation to the area on Saturday after suspected terrorists attacked on February 4, killing at least 75 residents and burning many homes. The assault also forced families to flee, worsening the humanitarian situation.
He noted that the wider Kaiama and Baruten areas, including parts of Old Borgu stretching into Niger and Kebbi states and neighbouring Benin Republic, have for centuries been known for practising Islam peacefully.
“That tragic killing had shocked Nigerians because the victims were peaceful members of communities that were dedicated to building their peaceful livelihoods while they practised their religion in the peaceful and harmonious manner that the injunctions of Islam have instructed,” Shettima said in a statement issued by Rafiu Ajakaye, chief press secretary to Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazak.
President Bola Tinubu deployed an army battalion to restore calm, while troops under Operation Savannah Shield are securing the communities. Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazak confirmed the military presence and vowed to prevent further attacks.
“All said, we will continue to work harder and pray for better security in Nigeria and for those committing this evil act to meet their waterloo,” the Governor said.
Security agencies are also investigating the attack, while humanitarian groups and local authorities coordinate relief efforts for displaced residents, providing food, shelter, and medical support.
