File photo: Map of Kwara State
Residents of Woro community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State have fled to neighbouring Niger State following a deadly terrorist attack that reportedly left over 176 people dead during the week.
The attack, which occurred on Tuesday evening and lasted until Wednesday morning, forced families to abandon their homes, escaping with little or no personal belongings as fear spread across the community and adjoining villages.
A viral video seen by our correspondent on Saturday shows displaced residents who took refuge in Wawa town, Niger State, gathered by the roadside.
Several vehicles believed to have conveyed them from Kwara State were seen parked nearby.
In the footage, some of the displaced persons were seated on plastic chairs under a temporary tent, while others sat on the ground, many appearing exhausted as women and children clustered together.
Confirming the development, the Special Assistant to the Chairman of Kaiama Local Government Area, ZulQharnain Musa, told Sunday PUNCH that Woro community had been completely deserted following the attack.
“The whole community has been deserted as of Saturday. Residents have absconded to neighbouring communities, including Niger State, Kaiama town, and some of those who escaped through the thick forest ended up in Baruten,” Musa said.
Musa disclosed that security forces had since been deployed to the affected area to restore calm.
“There is an army battalion currently stationed in the community as directed by President Bola Tinubu,” he said.
Despite the military presence, Musa said many residents remained unwilling to return, citing fear of renewed attacks and uncertainty over their safety, as entire households continue to seek refuge in host communities.
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