By Bavoriat Clara
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has expressed profound shock and condemnation over the killing of innocent civilians in a recent terrorist attack on Woro and neighbouring communities in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State.
In a statement issued by the Director, Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) described the attack as cowardly and tragic, noting that it targeted defenceless citizens who were committed to preserving their way of life and constitutional values.
The military commended the courage and resilience displayed by the people of Woro and surrounding communities, who reportedly resisted attempts by terrorists to coerce and indoctrinate them. According to the statement, the affected communities had earlier rejected a request by the terrorists to conduct preaching and indoctrination activities within the village, a move that demonstrated their loyalty to the Nigerian Constitution and shared national values.
Following the rejection, the military was alerted and promptly deployed troops to dominate the area through robust patrols, surveillance and other security measures, which were sustained for about two weeks. However, the terrorists later returned weeks after the military presence had been scaled down and carried out the deadly attack in an apparent act of retaliation aimed at instilling fear among residents.
The Defence Headquarters stated that it mourns with the families of those who lost their lives in the attack, as well as victims of similar violent assaults across the country, describing them as innocent Nigerians who paid the ultimate price while standing in defence of community values, freedom and national unity.
The DHQ urged citizens to remain steadfast in their faith in the Nigerian Constitution and their individual beliefs, while continuing to uphold the values that bind the nation together. It stressed that the unity and resilience of the Nigerian people remain the strongest defence against violent extremist groups seeking to undermine peace and stability.
The military further called on all Nigerians, irrespective of ethnic, religious or regional affiliations, to resist ideological indoctrination by extremist elements, warning that such groups rely on terror, intimidation and distorted beliefs to advance their agenda.
Reaffirming its commitment to the protection of lives and property, the Defence Headquarters assured Nigerians that efforts are being intensified, in collaboration with other security agencies, to track down and bring to justice those responsible for the attack in Woro, as well as other terrorist activities across the country. It also called for sustained cooperation between citizens and security agencies to enhance community security and safeguard Nigeria’s democratic ideals.
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