The African Union (AU) expressed condolences Thursday and condemned a terror attack in Nigeria, which killed at least 170 victims.

AU Commission Chair Mahmoud Ali Youssouf called the attack a "heinous and barbaric act," a severe violation of human rights and an "unacceptable" attack on peace and security, according to a statement Wednesday.

Youssouf extended condolences to the victims' families and expressed “full solidarity” with the Nigerian government and Kwara State authorities.

The AU reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Nigeria’s efforts to strengthen peace, security and stability across the country.

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Bodies recovered

The Kwara State government confirmed 75 victims were buried in a mass grave on Wednesday, but local lawmaker Saidu Baba Ahmed told Anadolu on Thursday that 170 bodies were recovered, with the death toll expected to rise.

“Information at my disposal indicated that the casualties have risen to 170. So, our people are still in the bush searching for more bodies. Thirty-five women were abducted. Survivors are also taking refuge in the bush,” he said.

Kwara State, particularly communities bordering forest belts, has in recent months faced growing security challenges linked to banditry, kidnapping and the movement of armed groups fleeing military pressure in neighboring states in the northwest and north-central regions.