Kwara Governor Confirms Military Deployment Amidst Deadly Bandit Attacks
Kwara State Governor, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, has confirmed the deployment of military troops to the Kaiama region of the state following a series of deadly attacks by bandits.
Governor Abdulrazaq stated that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu approved the military intervention under Operation Savannah Shield. The mission aims to eliminate bandits operating in Kaiama and the adjacent National Park in Niger State.
Speaking at the palace of the Emir of Kaiama, Alhaji Muazu Omar, Abdulrazaq described the attacks as genocidal and assured the public that the military would eradicate the bandits within a month. He was accompanied by security officials during the visit, where he emphasized that President Tinubu was angered by reports of bandits murdering villagers who resisted their attempts at indoctrination.
The Emir of Kaiama, visibly upset, reported that at least 75 villagers had been killed in Woro for refusing to accept the bandits' teachings, which were described as un-Islamic. However, Ahmed Baba, the local lawmaker, stated that the initial death toll ranged between 35 and 40, with more bodies potentially to be discovered as injured villagers fled into nearby bushes.
The attacks took place on Tuesday in Woro and Nuku communities, with numerous casualties, homes set ablaze, and families left devastated. Reports also indicated that two vehicles belonging to the village head were allegedly used by the assailants to transport kidnapped residents.
In response to the escalating security threat, the Kwara State Government previously imposed curfews and closed schools for several weeks, but schools were reopened on Monday. Security forces, including soldiers and forest guards, have been deployed to the affected areas to prevent further attacks.
The Nigerian military has intensified efforts to combat jihadist groups and armed bandits, with recent coordinated operations launched in the region.
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