Kwara State — Hundreds of residents have reportedly been killed, many injured, and thousands displaced after suspected armed bandits invaded Woro Community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State on the evening of Tuesday, February 3, 2026.
The attackers struck as residents were returning home from their farms and daily activities, opening fire indiscriminately. The assault reportedly left more than 200 people dead and resulted in the destruction of numerous properties, including houses, shops, and vehicles.
Among the victims were Mr. Tajudeen Olanrewaju and his wife, Mrs. Olubunmi Olanrewaju. However, their son, Abraham Olufunmilayo West, who had been living with them, narrowly escaped the attack, as he was away in town when the incident occurred, according to a close family source.
Efforts to reach Titi Olanrewaju, the only surviving daughter of the deceased, were unsuccessful. When contacted, she briefly stated, “They killed my family. What else do you want me to say? You can see for yourselves,” before ending the call.
Another resident, who identified himself as Sherrif, said the gunmen arrived on motorcycles and began shooting at close range. He also alleged that one of the attackers may have had connections with some local youths who reportedly viewed Abraham as someone who often warned them against engaging in criminal activities.
Sources further revealed that Mr. Olanrewaju and his wife were traders who owned several transport buses used for conveying yam produce to markets.
It was also gathered that the attackers were angered by Abraham’s escape and have allegedly threatened to track him down.
As of the time of filing this report, Abraham’s whereabouts remain unknown. Residents also claim that the once-populated Woro community, previously estimated at about 17,000 people, now has fewer than 200 inhabitants remaining.
Meanwhile, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed sadness over the incident and has directed security agencies to track down the perpetrators and bring them to justice.
The Commander of the 22nd Brigade, Brigadier General Nicholas Rume, stated that the military’s immediate priority is to restore stability in the area.
“Our aim is to stabilise the area first,” he said, “and then expand our operations to ensure that we track and, if possible, neutralise those responsible for this attack.”