Kwara State on Saturday received a high-profile condolence visit as Vice President Kashim Shettima joined state and national leaders to mourn the victims of the recent Woro attack in Kaiama, which claimed at least 78 lives.
At the Ahmadu Bello House in Ilorin, Shettima described the incident as a “gross violation of people’s right to practice their faith in peace.”
He noted that the scale of the attack “shocked all Nigerians.”
He conveyed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s personal sympathies to the Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, the people of Kaiama, and the entire state.
“Your Excellency, we are here at the behest of President Tinubu to commiserate with you and the good people of Kwara over the tragedy that befell Woro and Nuku on the evening of Tuesday, February 3rd.
“These victims were peaceful members of communities dedicated to living harmonious lives while practising their religion.
“The brutality of this attack is alien to the traditions of this land,” he said.
The Vice President reassured residents that security forces are taking decisive action.
“A battalion of the Nigerian Army has been deployed to Kaiama and surrounding areas to eliminate threats.
“While much of the security response cannot be disclosed, our focus is on restoring peace and tranquillity to the communities,” he said.
He prayed for the deceased, asking Allah to grant them Al-Jannah Firdaus, and for strength for their families.
Governor AbdulRazaq expressed gratitude to the federal government for its swift response.
“We thank the President and Vice President for coming to Kwara in this time of grief.
“The deployment of troops under Operation Savannah Shield, alongside tactical police teams, has already begun to prevent further attacks.
“We will continue to pray and support our leaders to ensure better security for all Nigerians,” he stated.
The condolence team included Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, Senators Ali Ndume, Emmanuel Udende, and Ovie Omo-Agege, NEMA Director General Zubaida Umar, and Niger Delta Power Holding Company MD Jennifer Adighije.
They were received by Governor AbdulRazaq, the Emir of Kaiama, HRH Alhaji Muazu Sheu Omar, Kaiama Local Government Chairman, Abdullahi Abubakar Danladi, members of the state cabinet, and other dignitaries.
Speaking on behalf of the Northeastern states, Governor Zulum prayed for the souls of the departed and urged that such attacks never recur.
“As Muslims, we believe in destiny, and Insha’Allah, this tragedy will not happen again.
“May Almighty Allah forgive the departed and grant them Janatul Firdaus,” he said.
Both the Emir and Kaiama LG Chairman commended the federal government for its support and thanked Vice President Shettima for the visit, while also praising Governor AbdulRazaq for his immediate response and presence in Woro after the attack. (vitalnewsngr.com)
