Bloodshed in Kwara: Southern Governors Mourn 162 Victims, Demand Swift Justice for Terror Attack

The Southern Governors’ Forum has expressed deep condolences to the Government and people of Kwara State following a deadly terror attack that claimed at least 162 lives in the communities of Woro and Nuku.

In a statement issued on Saturday in Abeokuta, the Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, described the incident as tragic, condemnable, and a grave assault on innocent, law-abiding citizens who were reportedly killed while going about their lawful activities.

Abiodun strongly condemned reports that the victims were targeted for allegedly refusing to adopt Sharia law, adding that homes and shops were set ablaze while several residents were kidnapped during the attacks. The assailants are believed to be linked to the Boko Haram terrorist group.

The Ogun State governor described the violence as “most horrendous,” stressing that Nigeria is a secular state founded on the principles of freedom of religion, peaceful coexistence, and respect for human life.

Calling for decisive action, Abiodun urged security and law enforcement agencies to intensify efforts to track down the perpetrators and ensure they are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law, noting that Nigerians deserve to live without fear of terror or intimidation.

Speaking on behalf of the Southern Governors’ Forum, Abiodun said the group stands in solidarity with Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman Abdulrazaq, and the affected communities during this difficult period.

He emphasized that justice must be served and that the continued loss of innocent lives to terrorism must be brought to an end through coordinated and sustained security operations.