Nigeria won’t yield to religious extremism — Tinubu

President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed Nigeria’s resolve to confront terrorism and religious extremism, saying the country will not bow to violent groups seeking to impose their beliefs through force.

Tinubu made the declaration on Thursday in a statement posted on his verified X handle following a deadly attack on the Worro community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State.

The President said he had earlier met with Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, who briefed him on the incident.

Condemning the assault, Tinubu described it as “cowardly and beastly,” accusing the attackers of targeting defenceless residents.

“The gunmen are heartless for choosing soft targets in their doomed campaign of terror,” he said.

He disclosed that he had ordered the immediate deployment of an army battalion to the affected area and approved the establishment of a new military command to lead Operation Savannah Shield, aimed at curbing terrorist activities and safeguarding vulnerable communities.

Tinubu noted that reports indicated the victims were attacked for resisting attempts at forced indoctrination, commending the community members for refusing to embrace violence.

“Nigeria will never surrender its people to extremism and terrorism masquerading as faith,” he stressed.

The President also directed federal and state agencies to work closely to provide urgent support and relief to the affected residents, assuring that security forces would pursue those responsible and ensure they face justice.

He extended his condolences to the families of the victims and the government and people of Kwara State, pledging the Federal Government’s continued support.

“We will protect our communities, defend our values, and defeat those who seek to divide us through terror,” Tinubu said.