Police Dismiss Claims of 176 Abductees in Kwara Terror Attack

The Kwara State Police Command has dismissed claims that 176 residents were abducted during the terrorist attack on Woro and neighbouring Nuku communities in Kaiama Local Government Area, stating that while several people were taken away by the attackers, there is no official record confirming the figure being widely circulated.

Commissioner of Police Adekimi Ojo made the clarification while briefing journalists in Ilorin, stressing that the number did not originate from any verified security report. He explained that although security agencies acknowledge that residents were abducted during the February attack, investigations have not established that exactly 176 people remain in captivity.

The police chief's remarks came a day after families of victims, community leaders and traditional rulers appealed to the Federal Government and security agencies to intensify rescue efforts, claiming that about 176 residents were still being held by terrorists nearly six months after the attack. Relatives of the victims had expressed concern over the prolonged captivity of their loved ones and called for renewed military operations to secure their release.

Ojo urged the public to avoid spreading unverified figures capable of creating unnecessary panic, noting that security agencies remain focused on ongoing operations to rescue those still in captivity and apprehend those responsible for the attack. He assured residents that the police, military and other security agencies were working together to restore peace and improve security in the affected communities.

The February assault on Woro and Nuku communities was one of the deadliest attacks recorded in Kwara State in recent years, leaving hundreds dead and many others displaced. Since then, security agencies have continued operations in the area, while families of missing persons have repeatedly appealed for stronger intervention to secure the release of those still believed to be in captivity.