Military intensifying manhunt for Kwara terror attackers – DHQ

Clarifies Nigeria–U.S. security cooperation

.IGP orders deployment of tactical, intelligence assets to Kwara

The Defence Headquarters says it has intensified efforts to track down and bring to justice the perpetrators of the recent terrorist attack on Woro and neighbouring communities in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara.

This is contained in a statement by the Director of Defence Information, Maj.-Gen. Samaila Uba, on Thursday in Abuja.

He said the military, working in collaboration with other security agencies, was pursuing those responsible for the attack that claimed innocent lives.

Uba explained that intelligence-led operations, patrols and surveillance were being strengthened to identify and dismantle terrorist elements operating in the area and adjoining communities.

He said also that the attackers had earlier attempted to indoctrinate residents of Woro village, a move firmly resisted by the community, before returning weeks later to carry out the deadly assault.

The defence spokesman said that efforts to locate the assailants would be sustained until they were apprehended and held accountable in accordance with the law.

He called for enhanced cooperation from citizens, urging residents to provide timely and credible information to security agencies to support ongoing operations.

Uba reaffirmed the commitment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to safeguarding lives and property, stressing that all terrorist elements threatening Nigeria’s peace and stability would be relentlessly pursued.

In another development, the Defence Headquarters has clarified the nature of Nigeria’s security cooperation with the United States, following media reports and public speculation over the alleged presence of U.S. troops in the country.

The clarification was made in a statement signed by the Director of Defence Information, Maj.-Gen. Samaila Uba, on Thursday in Abuja.

Uba explained that the Nigeria–U.S. partnership was long-standing, structured and focused on capacity building, professional military education, intelligence sharing, logistics support and strategic dialogue.

He stressed that all engagements under the partnership were conducted with full respect for Nigeria’s sovereignty and strictly in line with existing bilateral frameworks.

The defence spokesman explained that a recent two-day high-level Working Group meeting involving senior U.S. government officials and Nigerian counterparts held at the Office of the National Security Adviser was part of ongoing cooperation.

This, according to him, followed earlier engagements in the United States.

According to Uba, discussions at the meeting centred on proposals were aimed at strengthening cooperation mechanisms, improving coordination and enhancing accountability in joint efforts to counter terrorism and other transnational threats, while prioritising the protection of civilians and community safety.

He added that the proposals were still being reviewed by the relevant Nigerian authorities.

The defence spokesman reassured Nigerians that the country’s defence partnerships remain transparent, policy-driven and aligned with constitutional provisions.

He added that the Armed Forces of Nigeria remained fully committed to safeguarding the nation’s territorial integrity without compromising national independence.

Meanwhile, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Mr Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered the immediate deployment of tactical and intelligence assets to Kaiama community and its surrounding in Kwara.

The Force Public Relations Officer, Acting ACP Benjamin Hundeyin said this in a statement on Thursday in Abuja.

He said the deployment was to restore calm, strengthen security presence, and prevent further acts of violence.

Hundeyin said the Force has launched an intensive manhunt for the perpetrators and all individuals connected to this heinous crime.

According to him, investigations are already underway, and all available resources have been mobilised to ensure that those responsible are identified, apprehended, and brought to justice.

He said the Nigeria Police Force strongly condemned the violent attack that occurred on Tuesday in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara.

The Police spokesman said the attack had sadly resulted in the confirmed death of 75 persons.

He said the IGP had extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims, as well as to the Government and people of Kwara over the painful and tragic incident.

Hundeyin said the I-G had pledged the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to remain steadfast in its responsibility to protect lives and property.

“The Nigeria Police Force will continue to do everything necessary to guarantee the safety and security of all citizens,” Hundeyin quoted the I-G as saying.

Hundeyin enjoined the public to remain calm and to support the ongoing security efforts by providing timely and credible information that would assist operations.

He said the information could be reported at the nearest police station or through established police communication channels.