The Christian Association of Nigeria, Ganawuri District, and the Aten Development Association of Riyom Local Government Area in Plateau State have honoured the memory of over 30 members of the Aten ethnic group killed in the February 3, 2026, attack on Woro community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State.
The memorial ceremony was held on Friday at EKAN Primary School in Ganawuri, Riyom LGA, where families, community leaders and government officials gathered to pay tribute to the victims of what has been described as the Woro Massacre.
A former President of the Aten Youth Movement said the community received news of the attack with profound sadness.
“The Woro Massacre is a painful reminder of the senseless violence and bloodshed that have plagued our community for far too long. As a community, we must come together to support each other and demand justice for the victims,” he said.
Plateau State Deputy Governor, Josephine Piyo, in her condolence message, described the killings as a grievous loss not only to the Aten people of Ganawuri but also to Riyom LGA and Plateau State as a whole.
“It is with deep sadness that I convey my condolences to the Aten people of Ganawuri over the tragic loss of lives, displacement and suffering arising from the unfortunate killings in Woro, Kwara State,” she said.
“The Plateau State Government stands in solidarity with the Aten community during this moment of pain and mourning. We share in your grief and assure you of our moral support as you navigate this difficult period.”
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Executive Chairman of Riyom Local Government Council, Hon. Bature Sati Shuwa, who led a delegation to the ceremony, described the killings as “gruesome” and “heartbreaking.”
He said the loss extended beyond Ganawuri District to the entire Riyom LGA and Plateau State, urging unity and resilience among the people.
Shuwa recalled that his administration had earlier facilitated the repatriation of over 1,200 displaced Aten indigenes from Woro back to Ganawuri and reaffirmed commitment to their safety, welfare and peaceful coexistence.
“We share in your grief. The loss is enormous, but we must not allow darkness to overcome our unity and resilience,” he said.
He called on security agencies to intensify efforts to apprehend those responsible for the killings and ensure justice is served, while praying for lasting peace in the affected communities.