Gunmen have killed at least 162 people in west Nigeria attack, says Red Cross

Gunmen have killed at least 162 people in attacks on the villages of Woro and Nuku in Kwara state, Nigeria, according to a Red Cross official. These assaults, attributed to Islamic State group-linked Lakurawa militants, occurred on Tuesday night and are described as one of the deadliest armed assaults in Nigeria this year. The attackers shot residents, burned homes, and looted shops, contributing to the escalating security crisis in the region. Some reports indicate that the death toll may vary, with figures suggesting as many as 170 fatalities (Al Jazeera, The Guardian, France24, Deutsche Welle). In response to the violence, President Bola Tinubu announced the deployment of an army battalion to the affected district. The president characterized the attackers as "barbaric terrorists" and stated that the military presence is intended to restore order and protect the local population from further assaults. This military action aims to address the ongoing threat posed by jihadist fighters in the area, which has seen a rise in attacks and insecurity (The Guardian, Deutsche Welle). The attacks on Woro and Nuku villages highlight the broader security challenges facing Nigeria, where armed gangs, referred to as bandits, are known for looting villages and engaging in kidnappings for ransom. Additionally, jihadist groups continue to operate in the northeast and northwest regions of the country. The situation reflects a complex web of violence, including intercommunal conflicts prevalent in central states, exacerbating the overall security landscape in Nigeria (France24, Deutsche Welle).