Woro Killings Expose Collapse of Rural Security in Nigeria

The recent massacre in Woro community, Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State, has once again exposed the deepening collapse of Nigeria’s rural security architecture, according to public affairs analyst and politician, Gbenga Hashim.

At least 160 residents were killed when armed attackers stormed Woro and neighbouring villages earlier this month, burning homes, looting properties and leaving dozens missing. The attack, one of the deadliest in recent years, has intensified concerns over the safety of rural communities across the country. In a statement, Hashim said the killings highlighted a dangerous pattern where security agencies consistently arrive after attacks have occurred, rather than preventing them. He described the situation as a “systemic failure” that has left remote communities exposed to violent groups operating freely for hours without resistance. According to survivors, the attackers moved from house to house during the assault, while distress calls to security agencies yielded no immediate response. Hashim noted that such delays have become common in rural areas, particularly in border communities and forest regions where armed groups exploit limited security presence. He warned that continued neglect of rural security could push communities towards self-help measures, including vigilantism and ethnic profiling, further destabilising the country. Hashim called on the Federal Government and security agencies to provide transparent accounts of their response timelines during the Woro attack, including the use of aerial surveillance and rapid-response units. Following national outrage, President Bola Tinubu condemned the killings and ordered the deployment of additional troops to the affected areas. The military has since taken control of Woro and surrounding communities, while security operations continue to track the attackers. Several political leaders and groups have also condemned the attack. The Southern Governors’ Forum called for the arrest and prosecution of those responsible, while former presidential candidate Peter Obi urged the government to take urgent steps to end the worsening insecurity across Nigeria. Analysts say the Woro killings underscore the urgent need for a comprehensive overhaul of Nigeria’s rural security strategy, including improved intelligence gathering, faster emergency response, and permanent security formations in vulnerable areas.