Pope Leo XIV has condemned the recent wave of violent attacks across Nigeria, expressing deep sorrow over the loss of lives and calling on authorities to act decisively to safeguard citizens.
In a message posted on his X handle, the Pontiff said he received news of the attacks “with sorrow and concern,” adding that he feels a “prayerful closeness to all the victims of violence and terrorism.” He further urged Nigeria’s leaders to “continue to work with determination to ensure the safety and protection of the life of every citizen.”
The Pope’s statement follows a series of deadly incidents reported in several parts of the country, with Kwara State recording the most devastating attack. Between February 3 and 4, 2026, armed assailants struck the villages of Woro and Nuku in Kaiama Local Government Area. While police authorities and Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq confirmed 75 fatalities, residents and local officials say the toll may be significantly higher as recovery efforts continue.
In response, President Bola Tinubu ordered the deployment of additional troops to the affected area and declared a nationwide security emergency. An army battalion has since been dispatched to Kaiama under a new military operation aimed at restoring order. Vice President Kashim Shettima also visited Ilorin on February 7 to commiserate with the state government and affected communities.
The killings drew international condemnation, with the United Nations, the United States, and Türkiye denouncing the violence and calling for accountability. Türkiye further pledged military support to Nigeria’s efforts to tackle insecurity.
However, Amnesty International criticised the Nigerian government over what it described as serious security lapses, citing reports that residents had warned of impending attacks weeks before the incident in Kaiama.
Other deadly attacks were also recorded during the same period. In Katsina State, armed groups killed dozens of residents in Doma village, Tafoki ward, during coordinated assaults that reportedly collapsed a five-month peace pact. In 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.
Similarly, gunmen struck communities in Niger State on February 1, attacking areas in Agwara and Mashegu local government areas, setting a police station ablaze and abducting several residents.
The latest violence has renewed national and international concern over Nigeria’s security challenges, with growing calls for stronger protection of vulnerable communities and more decisive action against armed groups.
