IED explosion kills scores in Kwara community

Kwara map

There’s currently tension in Nuku village, near Woro community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State, as yet to be identified number of people have been reported killed when a car exploded after driving over an IED.The IED was suspected to have been planted by bandits in Nuku village.

Vanguard reliably gathered that the incident happened Monday morning, with only one survivor reported, among occupants of the vehicle.

Account by eyewitnesses said that the explosion occurred just about 200 metres from Woro — a community still reeling from the February 3, attack by suspected terrorists. That incident left nearly 200 people dead and about 176 others abducted.

It was gathered that the vehicle was moving toward the community when the IED suddenly detonated, causing a loud blast that sent panic across nearby settlements.

The exact number of casualties from the incident is yet to be officially confirmed. But residents said that the impact was devastating.

They said that the incident had further heightened tension in the Kaiama Local Government and surrounding areas, expressing fear over renewed attacks.

They also called for increased security presence to prevent a recurrence.

Efforts to get confirmation from the authorities at the Kwara State Police Command proved abortive, as calls put through were not answered.Also Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Dr Rafiu Ajakaye, couldn’t confirm the development at press time.

Meanwhile, community leaders are urging calm as security agencies intensify surveillance in the area.

A disturbing development – Govt

The Kwara State Government confirmed the incident, describing it as a disturbing development in a region already battling security challenges.