Kwara bandit attack in Woro and Nuku kills over 40, prompting deployment of soldiers and forest guards to secure communities

Woro and Nuku communities in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State were placed under heightened security on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, following a deadly assault by armed bandits that claimed at least 40 lives.

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Soldiers and forest guards have been deployed to prevent further attacks, residents and local sources confirmed.

The attackers, reportedly from neighbouring Niger State villages, had reportedly urged locals to abandon Nigeria’s constitution in favour of the Qur’an.

Dissent during the preaching allegedly triggered the assailants to open fire indiscriminately, leaving dozens dead and several homes destroyed.

Local residents, speaking anonymously, described the scene as devastating.

One witness said, “As we speak, soldiers and forest guards have taken over the two communities. It is such a very sad development at a time we thought peace had returned.”

Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq condemned the attack, describing it as “a cowardly expression of frustration by terrorist cells following the ongoing counterterrorism campaigns in parts of the state.”

Through his Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaye, the governor extended heartfelt condolences to affected families and assured that security forces are intensifying operations to safeguard residents.

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Authorities indicated that preparations for mass burials are underway while continuing counterterrorism efforts in the region to curb the threat of further attacks.