Pope Leo XIV has condemned the recent wave of violent attacks across Nigeria, expressing deep sorrow over the loss of lives and urging authorities to act decisively to safeguard citizens.
“It is with sorrow and concern that I learned of the recent attacks against various communities in Nigeria, leading to a heavy loss of life,” the Pontiff said in a post on his official X handle. “I express my prayerful closeness to all the victims of violence and terrorism.”
He added, “I likewise hope that the competent authorities will continue to work with determination to ensure the safety and protection of the life of every citizen. #PrayTogether.”
Kwara Attacks Trigger Global Reactions
The Pope’s remarks come amid a series of deadly attacks across several parts of Nigeria, with Kwara State recording the most devastating incident.
Between February 3 and 4, 2026, armed assailants attacked the villages of Woro and Nuku in Kaiama Local Government Area, an assault residents described as a massacre. While initial reports put the death toll at 162, local officials and survivors insist the number may exceed 200, as bodies continue to be recovered from surrounding bushland.
However, the Nigeria Police Force and Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq confirmed that 75 people were killed.
In response, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ordered the deployment of additional troops to the affected areas and declared a nationwide security emergency. A full army battalion has since been deployed to Kaiama under a new military operation aimed at restoring order.
Vice President Kashim Shettima also visited Ilorin on February 7, where he commiserated with the state government and affected communities.
International Condemnation, Rights Groups Raise Alarm
The killings sparked widespread international condemnation, with the United Nations, the United States, and Türkiye denouncing the attacks and calling for accountability. Türkiye, in particular, pledged military support to Nigeria’s fight against insecurity.
Amnesty International, however, criticised the Nigerian government over what it described as serious security lapses, noting that residents had reportedly warned authorities of possible attacks weeks before the massacre.
Deadly Attacks Across Other States
Other violent incidents were recorded across the country during the same period.
In Katsina State, armed groups reportedly killed between 21 and 35 people in Doma village, Tafoki ward, during coordinated house-to-house attacks that shattered a five-month peace pact between the community and local armed gangs.
In Benue State, suspected armed herdsmen attacked the Abande settlement in Kwande Local Government Area on February 3, killing at least 16 people, including a Mobile Police officer, and looting a local market.
Similarly, in Niger State, gunmen attacked communities in Agwara and Mashegu local government areas on February 1, setting a police station ablaze and abducting several residents.
Growing Security Concerns
The latest wave of attacks has renewed national concern over Nigeria’s security challenges, with mounting calls for stronger protection of vulnerable communities and more decisive action against armed groups.
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