Tinubu orders army battalion to Kaiama after deadly terrorist attacks in Kwara

Vice President Kashim Shettima has reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to restoring peace in Nuku and Woro communities of Kaiama Local Government Area, Kwara State, following deadly terrorist attacks that left scores dead.

Shettima said the President has ordered the immediate deployment of a battalion of the Nigerian Army to Kaiama to stabilise the area and prevent further violence. He assured residents that the Federal Government is taking decisive steps to tackle insecurity across the affected communities and the wider state.

According to a statement by his media aide, Stanley Nkwocha, the Vice President gave the assurance on Saturday while leading a Federal Government delegation to commiserate with the people of Kaiama and the Kwara State Government over the attacks, which occurred on Tuesday and reportedly claimed at least 75 lives.

Shettima also disclosed that President Tinubu has directed the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to mobilise resources, in collaboration with the Kwara State Emergency Management Agency, to provide relief and humanitarian support to victims.

Vice President Shettima in Kwara State

“We are here at the behest of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to commiserate with the government and people of Kaiama and Kwara State over the tragedy that befell the communities of Woro and Nuku,” the Vice President said.
“These tragic killings shocked the nation because the victims were peaceful citizens who were simply living their lives and practising their religion in harmony.”

He extended the condolences of the President and the Federal Government to families who lost loved ones, stressing that security agencies were fully engaged to restore peace.

“A battalion of the Nigerian Army has been deployed to Kaiama, and all hands are on deck to ensure peace and tranquillity return to these communities,” Shettima assured.

While declining to disclose specific security strategies, the Vice President noted that operational details were sensitive. He reiterated the Federal Government’s solidarity with the people of Kwara State, adding that prayers and empathy were with the affected families.

Earlier, Chairman of the North-East Governors Forum and Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, conveyed the condolences of the forum to the people and government of Kwara State. He prayed for divine forgiveness for the victims and expressed hope that such attacks would not reoccur.

Responding, Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq commended the swift intervention of the Federal Government, confirming that troops were already on the ground and that Operation Savannah Shield had been activated.

“The General Officer Commanding of the Second Division and a Deputy Inspector-General of Police are on ground. NEMA officials have also been here since the incident,” the governor said, calling for continued prayers for national peace and security.

The Chairman of Kaiama Local Government Area, Abdullahi Abubakar Danladi, thanked President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima for the rapid deployment of troops, while the Emir of Kaiama, HRH Alhaji Mu’azu Shehu Omar, praised the President for his prompt response and concern.

Gunmen attacked Woro and neighbouring Nuku communities on Tuesday, killing at least 75 people, burning shops and a traditional ruler’s residence, and forcing residents to flee their homes.