US Denounces ‘Horrific’ Kwara Killings, Endorses Tinubu’s Security Response

The United States has strongly condemned the deadly attack on Woro and Nuku communities in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State, Nigeria, as conflicting casualty figures continue to emerge.

While the Nigerian Police Force reported that 75 people were killed in the assault, local sources and international observers say the actual death toll may be significantly higher.

In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Friday, the US Mission in Nigeria described the incident as “horrific,” stating that more than 160 people were feared dead, with many residents still unaccounted for.

A general view of burnt debris and damaged homes following the attack in Woro, Kwara State, on February 5, 2026. According to the Red Cross, the death toll stands at 162 people, and search operations are ongoing. (Photo by Light Oriye Tamunotonye / AFP)

US Condemns Kwara Massacre

“The United States condemns the horrific attack in Kwara State, Nigeria, which claimed the lives of more than 160 people, with the death toll still unconfirmed and many still unaccounted for,” the statement read.

“We express our deepest condolences to the families of those affected by this senseless violence,” the US Mission added.

Support for Tinubu’s Security Response

The United States also welcomed President Bola Tinubu’s directive to deploy security forces to the affected communities and provide humanitarian assistance.

“We welcome President Tinubu’s order to deploy security forces to protect villages in the area and his directive to federal and state officials to provide aid to the community and bring the perpetrators of this atrocity to justice,” the statement said.

Military and Police Deployment

Following the attack, President Tinubu ordered the deployment of an army battalion to Kaiama and approved the creation of a new military command to oversee security operations in the area.

Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, also directed the immediate deployment of tactical and intelligence teams to Kaiama and neighbouring communities to restore calm.

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq said the deployment of troops under Operation Savannah Shield would help deter further violence, noting that security forces were already on the ground.