From Niyi Joseph, Ilorin
The Kaiama Development Association (KDA) has expressed concern that 13 residents abducted during the February 3 attack on Woro community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State remain missing, despite the release of most of the captives after about six months.
The National Chairman of the association, Yakubu Salihu, disclosed this on Thursday, saying only 163 of the 176 women and children abducted during the attack regained their freedom on Wednesday, leaving 13 others still unaccounted for.
“One hundred and seventy-six people were taken away, but only 163 were released. That leaves 13 people still missing. Where are the others?” Salihu asked.
Woro community came under attack on February 3 when armed kidnappers reportedly killed more than 100 people and abducted 176 residents, mostly women and children.
Salihu disclosed that some of the women gave birth while in captivity, describing the development as a painful reminder of the traumatic ordeal the victims endured over the past six months.
He said the freed victims are currently in Niger State and are expected to return to Kwara on or before Saturday, where they will receive medical care and be supported through rehabilitation and resettlement programmes.
The KDA chairman renewed his call on the Federal Government to expedite the establishment of a Nigerian Army battalion in Kaiama, saying the shortage of security personnel has left communities in the area vulnerable to recurring attacks.
“The Federal Government is working towards establishing a Nigerian Army battalion in our community. As a community, we are ready to provide a suitable location and every support needed to ensure the military settles in quickly and begins operations,” he said.
According to him, the few security personnel deployed to the area are overstretched and unable to respond effectively to emergencies.
“If the Federal Government can expedite the establishment of the military base, we are ready to provide every necessary support to ensure its smooth take-off. Once the battalion becomes operational, security response will be faster, and we believe it will go a long way in preventing similar attacks,” Salihu added.
He stressed that a permanent military presence is critical to restoring residents’ confidence and safeguarding communities against future attacks.
Salihu also appealed to governments at all levels to rehabilitate the deplorable road network in Kaiama Local Government Area, noting that poor roads continue to hamper security operations and hinder socio-economic development in the area.
(The Sun)