Dozens of people have been killed by unidentified gunmen in a ferocious attack on two villages in Nigeria's western state of Kwara, local lawmaker Saidu Baba Ahmed has reported to BBC Hausa. The attackers set fire to shops and homes, along with the residence of the traditional leader, prompting the residents of Nuku and Woro to flee.
The death toll is confusing, with Ahmed stating at least 35 fatalities, while a Red Cross official reported the number has risen to 162. This attack, which is one of several incidents across Nigeria in the past 24 hours, coincides with a confirmation from the country's defence minister about a small contingent of US troops aiding in intelligence and training.
This marks the first official acknowledgment of the American troop presence since President Donald Trump initiated preparations in November for military action in Nigeria against Islamist militants. Defence Minister Chrisopher Musa did not elaborate on specifics regarding the team's size, arrival, or operational duration.
Reports from Kwara's police spokesperson indicated that the violent incident began around 17:30 local time on Tuesday. The spokesperson attributed the attack to suspected bandits.
This recent violence exemplifies Nigeria's pervasive security issues, characterized by ruthless criminal gangs, Islamist insurgencies, land disputes, and separatist tensions. Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq suggested the attack served to distract security forces engaged in counter-terrorism efforts.
As violence flares and security deteriorates, the partnership between the US and Nigeria in combating these escalating threats becomes critical, showcasing the urgency of multinational cooperation in addressing dire security challenges.
The death toll is confusing, with Ahmed stating at least 35 fatalities, while a Red Cross official reported the number has risen to 162. This attack, which is one of several incidents across Nigeria in the past 24 hours, coincides with a confirmation from the country's defence minister about a small contingent of US troops aiding in intelligence and training.
This marks the first official acknowledgment of the American troop presence since President Donald Trump initiated preparations in November for military action in Nigeria against Islamist militants. Defence Minister Chrisopher Musa did not elaborate on specifics regarding the team's size, arrival, or operational duration.
Reports from Kwara's police spokesperson indicated that the violent incident began around 17:30 local time on Tuesday. The spokesperson attributed the attack to suspected bandits.
This recent violence exemplifies Nigeria's pervasive security issues, characterized by ruthless criminal gangs, Islamist insurgencies, land disputes, and separatist tensions. Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq suggested the attack served to distract security forces engaged in counter-terrorism efforts.
As violence flares and security deteriorates, the partnership between the US and Nigeria in combating these escalating threats becomes critical, showcasing the urgency of multinational cooperation in addressing dire security challenges.
