Nigeria is reeling from immense sorrow after a horrific attack in Kwara state, where gunmen tragically killed at least 162 people. This devastating incident, confirmed by the Red Cross, stands as one of the deadliest assaults the country has witnessed in recent months, leaving Woro village in ruins and a nation in shock.
The brutal attack unfolded late Tuesday evening, as armed assailants stormed Woro village. Beyond the tragic loss of life, they unleashed destruction, setting shops and even the traditional king’s palace ablaze. The whereabouts of the king, Alhaji Salihu Umar, remain unknown, adding a chilling mystery to an already dire situation. Many residents, some with gunshot wounds, desperately fled into the bush, highlighting the chaos and terror experienced.
This latest tragedy occurs amidst a complex backdrop of escalating insecurity across Nigeria. The country grapples with various armed gangs responsible for looting and kidnappings, intercommunal violence in central states, and active jihadist groups. The Kwara state governor condemned the attack, calling it a “cowardly expression of frustration” by terrorist cells. This suggests a grim connection to ongoing, intensified military counterterrorism campaigns in the region, which recently claimed to have “neutralized” many fighters and destroyed hideouts.
Despite these military efforts, the sheer scale of this attack underscores the immense and persistent challenge authorities face in securing communities and protecting innocent lives. The heartbreaking human toll of this violence serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle for peace and stability in Nigeria.
Source: https://www.bangkokpost.com/world/3190244/gunmen-kill-at-least-162-in-new-nigeria-attack
