The African Union (AU) has condemned on, 5 February, a deadly terror attack in Nigeria, describing it as a grave assault on human rights, peace and security.
AU Commission Chair Mahmoud Ali Youssouf characterised the incident as a “heinous and barbaric act” and extended condolences to the families of the victims, while expressing full solidarity with the Nigerian government and authorities in Kwara State.
The AU reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Nigeria’s efforts to strengthen national peace, security and stability amid escalating security pressures. Local authorities reported that dozens of victims were buried in a mass grave, while a lawmaker disclosed that at least 170 bodies had been recovered, with
the toll expected to rise as searches continue.
Survivors were said to have fled into surrounding forests, and several women were reportedly abducted. Kwara State, particularly communities near forest belts, has recently experienced worsening insecurity linked to banditry, kidnapping and the movement of armed groups displaced by military operations in neighbouring regions, underscoring the broader regional dimensions of Nigeria’s security challenge.