Vice President Kashim Shettima today arrived in Ilorin, the capital of Kwara State, to extend condolences to the government and people of the state on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, following a horrific terrorist attack that claimed numerous lives in Woro village, Kaiama Local Government Area.
The Vice President, accompanied by Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, Senator Ali Ndume, and Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, was received at the General Tunde Idiagbon International Airport by Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, along with state officials, security commanders, and members of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The attack, which occurred late Tuesday, involved armed extremists who invaded Woro village in an attempt to forcibly indoctrinate residents with a radical doctrine. When the community resisted, the assailants opened fire indiscriminately, burned homes and shops, including the residence of the local traditional ruler, and abducted several villagers.
Reports indicate that over 100 people were killed, with many others wounded and displaced into nearby bushes. The incident has been described by Governor AbdulRazaq as a genocide targeting local Muslims who refused to submit to the extremists' ideology.
During his visit, Vice President Shettima is scheduled to assess the situation firsthand in the affected communities and convey the Federal Government's unwavering commitment to supporting the victims and ensuring justice.
"President Tinubu has directed me to assure the people of Kwara State that the Federal Government will not relent until those responsible for this cowardly and beastly act are tracked, apprehended, and brought to justice," said Vice President Shettima upon arrival.
He emphasized ongoing military operations, including the deployment of an Army battalion under Operation Savannah Shield, to neutralize terrorist elements in the region and protect vulnerable communities.
President Tinubu has strongly condemned the attack, vowing that the perpetrators will not go unpunished. In response, the Kwara State government has imposed curfews in affected areas, temporarily closed schools, and pledged to flush out the criminals within a month through enhanced collaboration with federal security agencies.
The Federal Government remains committed to eradicating terrorism and restoring peace across Nigeria. Relief efforts are underway to provide aid to displaced families, and security forces continue coordinated operations to degrade terrorist capabilities in Kwara and neighboring states.