The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has expressed profound shock over the loss of innocent lives following the recent terrorist attacks on Woro and neighbouring communities in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State.

In a statement issued by the Director of Defence Information (DDI), Major-General Samaila Uba, the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) condemned the attack, describing it as cowardly and brutal, while commending the resilience and courage displayed by the affected communities.

Uba said the indomitable Nigerian spirit previously shown by communities targeted by terrorists was once again evident in Woro and its environs, where residents resisted violent coercion and refused to abandon their way of life or constitutional loyalty despite threats.

“The Armed Forces of Nigeria mourn with the families of those who have lost loved ones in these and other similar brutal attacks on defenceless citizens who stood firm in defence of community values and freedom across Nigeria,” the statement read.

According to the DHQ, the terrorists initially entered Woro village requesting permission to conduct preaching and indoctrination activities, a request that was firmly rejected by the villagers.

Uba explained that following the rejection, the military was alerted and troops were promptly deployed to dominate the area through robust patrols, surveillance and other security measures for about two weeks.

“However, the cowardly terrorists returned weeks later and attacked innocent citizens in protest, with the intent to terrorise the inhabitants and surrounding communities,” he said.

The DHQ urged Nigerians to remain steadfast in their faith in the Constitution and their individual beliefs, while upholding the shared values that bind the nation together.

“The unity and resilience of the Nigerian people remain our greatest defence against those who seek to undermine our peace and stability,” the statement added.

The military also called on Nigerians, regardless of ethnic, religious or regional affiliation, to resist ideological indoctrination by violent extremist groups, warning that such groups seek to impose distorted beliefs through fear and intimidation.

Reaffirming its commitment to national security, the DHQ assured citizens that the Armed Forces, in collaboration with other security agencies, would intensify efforts to track down and bring to justice those responsible for the Woro attack and other acts of terrorism across the country.

It further emphasised the need for enhanced cooperation between citizens and security agencies to safeguard communities, protect individual freedoms and preserve Nigeria’s democratic ideals.