News

Terrorists Allegedly Used Call to Prayer as Trap in Deadly Kwara Community Attack, Survivor Reveals

Published by admin on February 18th, 2026.

Terrorists Allegedly Used Call to Prayer as Trap in Deadly Kwara Community Attack, Survivor Reveals

A survivor of the recent attack on Woro community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State has recounted how suspected Boko Haram fighters allegedly used the Muslim call to prayer as a strategy to draw residents out before unleashing violence.

In an interview, the survivor, Magaji Woro, explained that the attackers entered the community under the guise of religious preaching. According to him, their approach initially created confusion, as many residents thought it was a normal religious gathering.

He said the incident began in the evening when the gunmen reportedly started preaching shortly after arriving in the community. The situation, he added, escalated between about 5 p.m. and 4 a.m., with no visible security response during those hours.

According to his account, the attackers allegedly took advantage of familiar religious practices. He claimed they used the evening call to prayer to encourage people to come out, knowing residents were accustomed to gathering for prayers at that time.

He further alleged that the assailants set some houses on fire and called on residents to come out and help put out the flames. As people stepped outside, they were reportedly attacked.

The survivor claimed that many people were killed during the assault and that about 176 individuals were abducted. He expressed fear and frustration, saying the community feels helpless in the face of repeated attacks.

He also voiced concern over what he described as a lack of adequate protection, stating that residents believe only decisive government intervention can restore safety and confidence in the area.

Previous reports indicated that the attack occurred between February 3 and 4, 2026, and resulted in significant casualties, including community leaders, family members of traditional authorities, and education officials. Security sources have linked the incident to a faction of Boko Haram believed to operate across parts of the Sahel region.

In the aftermath, displaced residents have raised concerns about the handling of relief efforts. Some alleged that the distribution of food items did not reach all affected families and claimed that certain non-residents benefited from the exercise.

One displaced resident said the community’s most urgent need is improved security rather than food assistance, stressing that many are willing to return to their farms if adequate protection is guaranteed.

The Kwara State Emergency Management Agency has stated that relief materials were distributed to over 550 affected households as part of efforts to support victims and stabilise the area.

However, survivors maintain that beyond humanitarian aid, their primary request remains strengthened security to prevent further attacks and allow them to rebuild their lives.