REVEALED: The Boko Haram letter that preceded deadly attack on Kwara community
By Ishaya Ibrahim
The letter sent to the traditional ruler of Woro community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State has surfaced.
Boko Haram terrorists killed scores—possibly up to 200 people—after the community rejected their demand to allow preaching in the area.
In the letter dated 19 Rajab 1447 AH (corresponding to January 8, 2026), the terrorists identified themselves as Jama’atu Ahlis Sunnah Lidda’awati wal Jihad (popularly known as Boko Haram).
They addressed it to the King (Sarkin) of Woro, requesting an audience to dialogue with him or his delegation for the purpose of preaching.
The letter reads in part: “We wish to discuss matters with you and remind you, particularly concerning preaching and guidance among your people. This is not a threat or a declaration of war against you or your people.”
The community reportedly handed the letter over to security agencies. However, three weeks later—rather than receiving protection—the terrorists descended on the community, unleashing a deadly attack.
According to reports, residents of Kaiama had earlier raised the alarm about unfamiliar armed men camping in bushes surrounding their communities.
“Before these attacks happened, our youths went to the traditional ruler many times to report that strange people were gathering inside the forest close to our villages,” one resident was quoted by Sahara Reporters.
“They did not only stop there. They also informed the local government council and the state government. Everybody knew, but nobody came to protect us.”
Another resident confirmed that the warnings were escalated to state and local authorities but were allegedly ignored.
“We reported to the state government and to the local government authorities that terrorists were around us. We begged them to deploy security operatives to clear the forests,” the resident said.
“They kept assuring us that something would be done, but nothing happened.”
