Weeks after Boko Haram faction group led by Mallam Sadiqu massacred at least 162 residents of Woro and Nuku communities in Kaiama area of Kwara State, the terrorists on Saturday released video of children and women abducted during the attack on the two communities.
The raid which occurred on Feb 3 was the deadliest attack in 2026 and mass abduction of women and children in two communities— Woro and Nuku. Sa’idu Ahmed, a state lawmaker representing Gwanabe/Gwaris constituency of Kaiama Local Government Area pegged the figure of abducted victims at 35, also the state authorities argued that the death figure is 75.
Several Kwara and Niger villages on fringes of Kainji National Park are exposed to terror onslaught of attacks coordinated by Mallam Sadiqu who operates unchallenged in the Kainji forest hideout.
In the video, women and children were lined up as the terrorist asked three women the figure of abducted victims on their captives.
“These are the people kidnapped in Woro. Now you can hear how they were kidnapped including their number”, the terrorists who spoke behind the camera said.
One of the abducted women said that they were said to be in Woro under Kaiama area of Kwara State, adding that they are 176 in number.
Another victim who held a baby in her arms also said that they were abducted in Woro in Kaiama of Kwara State.
“Your government lied that the abducted victims didn’t go beyond 30 in numbers”, the terrorist continues.
The Kwara state government led by Abdulrahman Abdulrasaq on Saturday confirmed the disturbing footage of the abducted victims, assuring them of safe return.
In a statement released by Bolanle Olukoju, the commissioner for communications expressed concern over the footage and its commitment to secure the safe return of all affected residents.
“The Kwara State Government is deeply concerned over the disturbing video released by terrorists earlier today, allegedly showing some persons taken during the tragic February 3 attack on Woro community. As always, our thoughts are with all the families affected, and we reaffirm our commitment to securing the safe return of all those impacted,” the statement read.
According to the government, officials and security agencies are carefully analysing the video to establish the identities of the individuals shown, noting that the footage may heighten anxiety among residents.
The government explained that since the incident, there have been varying accounts regarding the number of persons abducted, which is why neither the state nor security agencies have announced a definitive figure.
“For this reason, neither the State Government nor security agencies have announced a definitive figure. Our priority remains the safe rescue of every affected citizen and ensuring that those responsible are brought to justice,” Olukoju stated.
It added that some persons initially reported missing have since reunited with their families, while others may have temporarily relocated to neighbouring communities, including Wawa and New Bussa in neighbouring Niger State.
“We urge residents to remain calm, avoid spreading unverified information, and continue cooperating with authorities,” the statement added.
