Boko Haram Releases Video of Women, Children Abducted in Kwara Community

A faction of Boko Haram operating in north-central Nigeria has released a video showing women and children abducted from Woro village in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State.

The attack on the community occurred between 3 and 4 February. Gunmen reportedly killed and abducted residents during an assault that lasted several hours. Security forces arrived after the attackers had left, according to residents who spoke to newsmen.

Saidu Ahmed, a member of the Kwara State House of Assembly representing the Gwanabe/Gwaria constituency, estimated that 35 people were kidnapped. However, a state government official said 75 people were confirmed dead. Community members have suggested that the casualty and abduction figures may be higher.

In the 1 minute, 34 second video, posted on TikTok, a voice believed to be that of one of the attackers questions several women and children about their village of origin and the number of people being held. Four women identify Woro as their home, while another says, “We are 176 in captivity.”

The video also includes criticism of the government, disputing official claims that no more than 30 people were abducted. The account that posted the video, under the name Abu Abba, was no longer accessible shortly after it surfaced.

Woro lies on the outskirts of Kainji National Park, a 5,341-square-kilometre forest reserve that has become a base for armed groups. Alongside Boko Haram, the militant group Ansaru—known locally as Mamuda—has operated in the area since around 2020. Boko Haram fighters reportedly moved into the forest in July last year.

Salihu Umar, the village head of Woro, said his wife and daughters were among those abducted. He confirmed seeing the video after it was shared with him and stated that more than 150 names were recorded shortly after the attack as suspected abductees. He added that no captives have been rescued and that no contact has been made regarding ransom.

The assault followed a letter reportedly sent to the village head weeks earlier, in which the attackers said they intended to visit the community for preaching.

Following the attack, President Bola Tinubu deployed an army battalion to the area with orders to pursue the attackers and secure the release of those held. As of the time of reporting, there has been no confirmed rescue operation.