Kwara Government Responds to Viral Bandits Video Showing Abductees from Woro Community
The Kwara State Government has reacted to a disturbing viral video allegedly released by armed bandits showing individuals abducted during the February 3, 2026 attack on Woro community in Kaiama Local Government Area.
In an official statement issued on Saturday, the state government expressed deep concern over the footage, which reportedly features some of the victims taken during the violent assault on the community. The statement, signed by Commissioner for Communications Bolanle Olukoju, described the video as troubling and capable of heightening anxiety among residents and families of those affected.
According to the statement, the government is working closely with security agencies and community leaders to analyze the video and verify the identities of individuals shown. Authorities emphasized that their priority remains the safe rescue of all affected residents and the eventual prosecution of those responsible for the attack.
“Our thoughts are with all the families affected by this tragic incident,” the statement read. “We reaffirm our commitment to securing the safe return of all those impacted. Government officials and security agencies are carefully analysing the video to establish the identities of the individuals shown.”
The February 3 attack on Woro community reportedly involved armed bandits who invaded the area, leading to multiple casualties and abductions. However, officials noted that conflicting accounts regarding the number of people killed or kidnapped have made it difficult to confirm a definitive figure. As a result, neither the state government nor security agencies have released official casualty or abduction numbers.
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Authorities said the lack of clarity stems from ongoing investigations and efforts to avoid spreading misinformation. Community leaders have been engaged to assist in identifying those seen in the viral footage, and preliminary assessments have confirmed that some of the individuals shown are residents of Woro.
The government also disclosed that several persons initially reported missing have since reunited with their families, while others may have relocated temporarily to nearby communities for safety. Locations mentioned include Wawa and New Bussa in neighboring Niger State, where some residents reportedly fled following the attack.
Despite these developments, community representatives have indicated that a number of individuals remain unaccounted for. The state government said efforts are ongoing to determine the exact number of missing persons and ensure that all abducted victims are safely returned.
A response committee led by traditional ruler Ahmed Ibn Muhammed has been working with security agencies, local authorities, and humanitarian groups to coordinate relief efforts. The committee is also tasked with supporting displaced persons and facilitating communication between affected families and relevant authorities.
The government urged residents to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information, stressing that misinformation could hinder ongoing rescue and investigation efforts. Officials assured the public that verified updates will be provided as more information becomes available through proper coordination with security and community stakeholders.
The incident has drawn national attention and renewed concerns about insecurity in parts of Nigeria, particularly in rural communities vulnerable to bandit attacks. Observers note that the release of videos by armed groups has increasingly become a tactic to pressure authorities and spread fear among affected populations.
While the state government continues to assess the situation and work toward the safe return of those abducted, residents of Woro and surrounding communities remain on edge. Security agencies have not yet disclosed operational details, citing the need to protect ongoing efforts to rescue victims and apprehend the perpetrators.
The government reiterated its commitment to transparency and pledged to keep the public informed through official channels as the investigation and rescue operations progress.