Suspected members of Boko Haram, also known as Jama’atu Ahlissunnah Lidda’awati wal-Jihad, have circulated a video displaying a large group of abducted residents reportedly taken from Woro community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State.
In the footage, obtained by SaharaReporters, an armed individual is seen questioning several captives about where they were seized. Three women, including a nursing mother, responded in Hausa that they were abducted from Woro in Kaiama LGA.
The video shows dozens of women and children standing in rows, appearing distressed. Their clothing looked worn, and some children were partially dressed, suggesting difficult conditions.
During the recording, one of the insurgents accused the Kwara State Government of understating the scale of the abduction. He claimed that while officials reportedly said between 20 and 30 people were kidnapped, the actual number in their custody was 176.
As of press time, the Kwara State Government had not publicly responded to the claims in the video or confirmed the precise number of abducted residents.
The development has heightened concerns about insecurity in Kaiama LGA and surrounding areas of Kwara North, where residents have reported repeated attacks by armed groups.
Background to the Attack
Earlier this month, Woro community was hit by a deadly assault carried out by suspected militants. Multiple sources said dozens of residents were killed during the attack, including prominent community figures.
Among those reportedly killed were two wives of the Emir of Woro, several of his children, the Chief Imam of the town, a school principal, a headmistress, and some students. The Emir, Alhaji Saliu Bio Umar, remains missing, raising fears about his fate.
Witnesses said the attackers stormed the community in large numbers, targeting residents and travellers. Homes and other structures, including the Emir’s palace, were set ablaze. His official vehicle was reportedly taken during the attack.
Sources further indicated that the violence may have followed earlier tensions between the community leadership and a faction of Boko Haram. The Emir was said to have alerted security agencies about alleged attempts by the group to impose extremist teachings on residents.
Security operatives reportedly responded to distress calls but were overwhelmed by the scale of the assault. Residents say the attackers operated for several hours before withdrawing.
Authorities have yet to provide an updated casualty figure or detailed account of the incident, while residents continue to call for increased security presence in the area.
