The United States has condemned the deadly attack on communities in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State, as different reports continue to emerge regarding the number of casualties recorded during the incident.
The assault, which occurred in Woro and Nuku communities, has attracted both national and international outrage, with varying figures being released by authorities and observers.
While the Nigeria Police Force confirmed that 75 people were killed, local sources and international reports have suggested that the actual number of victims may be far higher.
In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Friday, the United States Mission in Nigeria described the incident as a “horrific attack,” stating that over 160 people were feared dead, with several others still missing.
The US Mission expressed deep sympathy to the families of the victims, describing the violence as senseless and tragic.
“The United States condemns the horrific attack in Kwara State, Nigeria, which claimed the lives of more than 160 people, with the death toll still unconfirmed and many still unaccounted for,” the statement read.
The US government also welcomed President Bola Tinubu’s directive for the deployment of security forces to protect the affected communities and restore peace.
It further commended Tinubu’s instruction to federal and state officials to provide humanitarian support and ensure that those responsible for the killings are brought to justice.
The statement adds to growing international condemnation of the incident, following earlier reactions from the United Nations and the Republic of Türkiye.
Following the attack, Tinubu reportedly ordered the deployment of an army battalion to Kaiama and approved the establishment of a new military command to coordinate the operation.
Similarly, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, directed the immediate deployment of tactical units and intelligence teams to Kaiama and nearby areas in a bid to prevent further violence and restore calm.
Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, also confirmed that troops operating under Operation Savannah Shield had been deployed, noting that their presence would help discourage future attacks.
He added that security personnel were already stationed in the affected communities.
