International bodies and foreign governments have spoken out after a violent attack in parts of Kwara State left dozens of people dead and many others displaced.

The United Nations, the United States and Türkiye all released messages condemning the violence and offering sympathy to Nigeria.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres described the incident as a terrorist act and expressed sorrow for the victims, saying his thoughts were with their families and with the Nigerian people. He also wished the injured a quick recovery.

The United States Mission in Nigeria said it was disturbed by the scale of the killings and welcomed President Bola Tinubu’s decision to send security personnel and emergency support to the affected communities. The mission added that those responsible must be brought to justice.

Türkiye also reacted through its Ministry of Foreign Affairs, saying it was saddened by the tragedy and would continue to stand with Nigeria in efforts to fight terrorism.

The violence occurred in Woro and Nuku communities in Kaiama Local Government Area when armed men stormed the villages, setting buildings on fire and forcing residents to flee. Shops and the home of a traditional ruler were among the properties destroyed.

Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq confirmed that at least 75 people had been buried and described the incident as a massacre. Other reports suggest the number of casualties may be higher.

Nigeria’s Inspector-General of Police has ordered the deployment of special tactical and intelligence units to the area, while the police say operations are underway to track down the attackers.

President Bola Tinubu has also approved the movement of an army battalion to Kwara State under Operation Savannah Shield to strengthen security.

Political groups, including members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Northern States Governors’ Forum, have criticised the attack, calling it cruel and a sign of deepening insecurity in the region.

 Rural communities in parts of Kwara have faced rising security threats in recent times, with residents repeatedly calling for stronger protection. The latest attack has renewed national and international attention on the safety of villages and the need for faster security intervention.