Kwara killings: US condemns ‘horrific’ attack, backs troop deployment
By Jeffrey Agbo
The United States has condemned the deadly assault on communities in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State, describing the incident as “horrific” amid conflicting reports over the number of casualties.
The attack on Woro and Nuku communities has triggered widespread national and international outrage, with casualty figures varying sharply. While the Nigerian Police Force confirmed that 75 people were killed, local accounts and international observers suggest the death toll is significantly higher.
In a statement posted on X on Friday, the US Mission in Nigeria said more than 160 people were feared dead, noting that many victims were still unaccounted for.
“The United States condemns the horrific attack in Kwara state in Nigeria, which claimed the lives of more than 160 people, with the death toll still unconfirmed and many still unaccounted for.
“We express our deepest condolences to the families of those affected by this senseless violence,” the statement read.
The US also welcomed President Bola Tinubu’s decision to deploy security forces to the affected areas.
“We welcome President Tinubu’s order to deploy security forces to protect villages in the area and his directive to federal and state officials to provide aid to the community and bring the perpetrators of this atrocity to justice,” the statement added.
The reaction from Washington adds to growing international condemnation of the attack, which has previously drawn criticism from the United Nations and the Republic of Türkiye.
Following the assault, President Tinubu ordered the deployment of an army battalion to Kaiama and approved the establishment of a new military command to oversee security operations in the area.
Similarly, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, directed the immediate deployment of tactical and intelligence units to Kaiama and surrounding communities to restore order and prevent further violence.
Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, said the arrival of troops under Operation Savannah Shield would serve as a deterrent, noting that security personnel were already on the ground.
