Pope Leo XIV has condemned the recent wave of violent attacks across Nigeria, expressing sorrow over the loss of lives and calling on authorities to act decisively to protect 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. I express my prayerful closeness to all the victims of violence and terrorism,” the pontiff wrote on his X account.
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.”
The Pope’s statement comes amid a series of deadly attacks across the country, with Kwara State recording the most devastating incident.
Deadly attacks in Kwara state
Between February 3 and 4, armed assailants attacked the villages of Woro and Nuku in Kaiama Local Government Area in what residents described as a massacre. While official reports confirmed 75 deaths, locals say the toll could exceed 200 as bodies continue to be recovered from surrounding bushland.
In response, President Bola Tinubu ordered the deployment of additional troops and declared a nationwide security emergency. An army battalion has been sent to Kaiama under a new military operation aimed at restoring order. Vice President Kashim Shettima also visited Ilorin on February 7 to console the state government and affected communities.
Global reactions
The attacks drew international condemnation. The United Nations, the United States, and Türkiye denounced the violence and called for accountability. Türkiye additionally pledged military support to Nigeria’s efforts to combat insecurity.
Amnesty International, however, criticised the Nigerian government over what it described as serious security lapses, noting that residents had reportedly raised concerns about impending attacks weeks before the massacre.
Other incidents across Nigeria
Violence also struck other states during the same period:
- Katsina State: Armed groups killed between 21 and 35 people in Doma village, Tafoki ward, during coordinated house-to-house attacks that reportedly shattered a five-month peace pact.
- 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.
- Niger State: Gunmen launched attacks on communities in Agwara and Mashegu local government areas on February 1, setting a police station ablaze and abducting several residents.
The spate of attacks has renewed concerns over Nigeria’s security situation, prompting growing calls for stronger protection of vulnerable communities and decisive action against armed groups.
