KWARA ATTACK: GOVERNMENT, TERROR GROUP DISAGREE ON NUMBER OF ABDUCTED VICTIMS

Read Time:2 Minute, 5 Second

By: Balogun Ibrahim

The Kwara State Government and the Al-Sunnah terrorist group, which claimed responsibility for the February 3, 2026 attack in Woro and Nukku communities of Kaiama Local Government Area, have released conflicting accounts of the number of people kidnapped.

The state government reported that 20 to 30 people were abducted in Woro, with several others killed, while Al-Sunnah claimed it had taken at least 176 individuals, who remain in their custody.

In a video circulated widely on Saturday, the group paraded the abducted victims, saying most were women and children from Kaiama Local Government Area.

Reacting to the video, Kwara State Commissioner for Communication, Mrs. Bolanle Olukoju, expressed deep concern for the safe return of those kidnapped.

“The Kwara State Government is deeply concerned about the troubling video released by terrorists today, allegedly showing some of the individuals abducted during the February 3 attack on Woro community.

“Our thoughts remain with all affected families, and we reaffirm our commitment to ensuring the safe return of everyone impacted,” Olukoju said.

She added, “We understand the anxiety this footage may cause. Government officials and security agencies are carefully reviewing the video to verify the identities of the individuals depicted.”

“Since the attack, reports on the number of people abducted have varied. Consequently, neither the state government nor security agencies have confirmed an official figure.”

“Our top priority is the safe rescue of every affected citizen and ensuring that those responsible face justice,” Olukoju said.

READ MORE…

12 SUSPECTED KIDNAPPERS, 83 OTHERS ARRESTED IN ONDO STATE

She added that the government had engaged Woro community leaders to help identify individuals shown in the video.

“So far, a few persons have been preliminarily identified as residents of Woro. Community representatives have indicated that others remain unaccounted for. Some initially reported missing have since returned to their families, while others may have temporarily relocated to nearby communities, including Wawa and New Bussa in Niger State,” she said.

The commissioner further noted, “The government’s response committee, led by His Highness Ahmed Ibn Muhammed, continues to work closely with security agencies, local authorities, and community stakeholders to coordinate rescue efforts, provide humanitarian support, and ensure the safe return of displaced persons.”

“We assure the public that verified updates will be shared as more information becomes available, in coordination with security agencies and community leaders.

“We urge residents to stay calm, refrain from circulating unconfirmed reports, and continue cooperating with the authorities,” Olukoju said.