By AnchorNews Correspondent 

A deadly bandit attack on Woro community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State has forced residents, including the traditional ruler, to flee their homes, leaving the town largely deserted.

Survivors of the Tuesday night assault have refused to return despite the deployment of additional security personnel, citing fear and trauma. The village head of Woro reportedly relocated to Kaiama town after losing two children in the attack, while his wife, mother, and three other children were abducted by the attackers.

The Emir of Kaiama, Alhaji Muazu Omar, confirmed that Woro has become a ghost town following what he described as one of the worst massacres Nigeria has witnessed in recent times. He disclosed that bandits, who disguised themselves as religious preachers, lured residents into a gathering before opening fire when the people attempted to disperse.

“We counted at least 75 corpses, and the number may be higher as some families conducted private burials. Many women and children were taken into the bush,” the Emir said, adding that the attackers operate from the vast forest around the Kainji National Park with the help of local informants.

Survivors narrated harrowing accounts of how about 200 armed men stormed Woro and neighbouring Nuku communities, shooting indiscriminately, tying up captives, executing some at the palace of the village head, and burning others alive inside shops and homes.

The chairman of Kaiama Local Government Area, Abubakar Danladi, described the scene as “a horror film,” saying dozens of bodies were found in the town and surrounding bushes. He alleged that insider collaboration aided the attackers.

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq condemned the attack as barbaric and announced the immediate deployment of soldiers under Operation Savannah Shield. He also directed emergency agencies to support victims and set up a committee to interface with the community on humanitarian and rebuilding efforts.

The Kwara State Police Command confirmed the attack, saying joint security forces have been deployed to restore order while investigations continue to track down the perpetrators.

Community leaders and regional groups, including the Arewa Discussion Group, have condemned the resurgence of bandit violence and called for sustained military operations to flush terrorists from forest enclaves spanning Kwara and neighbouring states.