The Defence Headquarters has said terrorists who attacked Woro and neighbouring communities in Kaiama local government area of Kwara State are seeking to impose their twisted beliefs through terror and intimidation.
The Director Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, in a statement, expressed shock over the incident and mourned with the families of those who lost loved ones in the brutal attack and other similar attacks on defenceless citizens defending community values and freedom across Nigeria.
He commended the indomitable Nigerian spirit exhibited by various Nigerian communities that have been targeted by terrorists.
He said this remarkable spirit was again exhibited by the resilient people of Woro and neighbouring communities who stood firm against violent coercion and refused to abandon their way of life and constitutional loyalty despite threats
He recalled that terrorists entered Woro village of Kaiama local government of Kwara state with a request to conduct a preaching and indoctrination session in the village, which was outrightly rejected by the villagers.
He said the military was informed, and promptly, troops were dispatched to dominate the general areas with robust patrols and surveillance, among other security measures, for about two weeks.
He said, “The cowardly terrorists, however, returned weeks later to kill innocent citizens in protest and in a bid to terrorise inhabitants and others.
“These groups seek to impose their twisted beliefs through terror and intimidation”.
He therefore urged citizens to remain steadfast in their faith in the Nigerian Constitution, their individual beliefs, and to uphold the shared values that bind our nation together.
He stressed that the unity and resilience of the Nigerian people are our greatest defence against those who seek to destroy our peace and stability.
The DHQ further called on all Nigerians, irrespective of ethnic, religious or regional identity, to resist any form of ideological indoctrination by violent extremist groups.
The Defence Headquarters reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding all Nigerians and called for enhanced cooperation between citizens and security agencies to protect our communities, our individual freedom and our nation’s democratic ideals.
He assured, “Efforts will continue to be intensified by the military in conjunction with other security agencies towards finding and bringing to account those responsible for the dastardly attack and indeed all terrorists in the country.”
