A coalition of civil society organisations in Kwara State has intensified pressure on authorities to secure the freedom of 176 women and children abducted during violent attacks on Woro and Nuku communities in Kaiama Local Government Area.
In a statement issued on Wednesday and sighted by The in Ilorin, the groups described the continued stay of the victims in captivity as unacceptable, warning that the development reflected a disturbing lapse in the government’s primary duty to safeguard citizens.
“We demand that the Kwara State Government wake up to its responsibilities and put every machinery in place to ensure the immediate release of the women and children of Woro and Nuku communities,” the coalition said.
Coordinated by the Media Advocacy and Technologies Centre, the coalition disclosed that the abductees had allegedly spent about 15 days in captivity since gunmen launched coordinated assaults on the agrarian communities.
Residents said the attacks left over 200 persons feared dead, several homes were razed, and scores of individuals were kidnapped.
“The people of Woro and Nuku cannot be abandoned at a time like this.
“It is painful and shameful that 176 innocent citizens, mostly women and children, are reportedly being held under degrading conditions, exposed to harsh weather and uncertainty about their fate,” it said.
The groups called on the state government to deploy all available security resources to ensure the safe rescue of the victims, apprehend the perpetrators, and establish sustained protection in affected communities, while providing comprehensive rehabilitation for survivors.
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