The Kwara State Government has reacted to a viral video allegedly released by armed bandits following the deadly February 3 attack on Woro community in Kaiama Local Government Area.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Commissioner for Communications, Bolanle Olukoju, said the government was deeply concerned by the disturbing footage, which purportedly shows some of the individuals taken during the нападение.
She said the state authorities were working closely with security agencies to analyse the video and verify the identities of those shown.
“As always, our thoughts are with all the families affected, and we reaffirm our commitment to securing the safe return of all those impacted,” the statement said.
The government acknowledged the anxiety generated by the clip and noted that officials were carefully examining the content to establish the identities of the persons featured.
It explained that conflicting reports had emerged regarding the number of people killed or abducted during the attack, making it difficult to confirm definitive figures.
“For this reason, neither the state government nor security agencies have announced a definitive figure. Our priority remains the safe rescue of every affected citizen and ensuring that those responsible are brought to justice,” the statement added.
The government said it had engaged community leaders in Woro to assist in identifying those seen in the footage. A few individuals have been preliminarily identified as residents, while others remain unaccounted for.
It also noted that some persons initially reported missing had since reunited with their families, while others may have temporarily relocated to neighbouring communities, including Wawa and New Bussa in Niger State.
The state’s response committee, led by His Highness Ahmed Ibn Muhammed, is continuing to collaborate with security agencies, local authorities and community stakeholders to coordinate rescue efforts, provide humanitarian support and facilitate the safe return of displaced persons.
The government urged residents to remain calm, avoid spreading unverified information and cooperate fully with the authorities, assuring the public that updates would be provided as more verified information becomes available.
