The Northern States Governors Forum has denounced a recent bandit attack on a market in Niger State, which resulted in the loss of dozens of lives. The forum also expressed deep sorrow over a separate boat accident in Yobe State that claimed at least 25 lives. In a statement, the chairman of the forum, Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State, described the market attack as a “cruel assault on innocent citizens” and a significant threat to peace and economic activities in the region.
The attack highlights the persistent security challenges facing northern states, with the governors calling on security agencies to intensify efforts to track down and bring the perpetrators to justice. The forum extended condolences to the families of those killed in the attack and prayed for the safe rescue of persons reportedly abducted during the incident.
In Yobe State, a boat capsize resulted in the loss of at least 25 lives, with several others still missing. The governors described the tragedy as “heartbreaking” and called for improved safety measures in water transportation to prevent similar incidents in the future. They urged relevant authorities to review and enforce transportation safety protocols, particularly in riverine communities.
The Northern States Governors Forum reaffirmed its commitment to regional stability, pledging continued collaboration with federal authorities, security agencies, and emergency services to strengthen security architecture and emergency response across the region. This cooperation aims to address the underlying security challenges and prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.
The recent incidents underscore the need for sustained efforts to enhance security and safety in the region. The northern governors’ commitment to working with federal authorities and security agencies is a crucial step towards achieving this goal. As the region continues to grapple with security challenges, the forum’s efforts to strengthen collaboration and improve safety measures are essential to preventing similar tragedies and promoting regional stability.
