By: Monday Munkaila, Gombe
The Chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, has strongly condemned the deadly explosions that rocked Maiduguri on Monday evening, describing the attacks as heinous, barbaric and a direct assault on innocent lives.
The explosions, which reportedly occurred almost simultaneously at the gate of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, the Monday Market Roundabout and the Post Office area, have left many feared dead and several others injured.
In a statement issued in his capacity as Chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum, Governor Inuwa Yahaya expressed deep sorrow over the tragic incident, extending his heartfelt condolences to the government and people of Borno State, particularly families who lost their loved ones.
“This senseless act of violence is not only reprehensible but a cruel attempt to instill fear and disrupt the fragile peace being restored in the North-East. It is an attack on our collective humanity and must be condemned in the strongest terms,” the Governor stated.
The NSGF Chairman also sympathized with victims receiving treatment in various hospitals and prayed for their quick recovery, while commending first responders and security agencies for their swift intervention in managing the aftermath of the blasts.
He restated the commitment of the Northern Governors to continue working closely with the Federal Government and security agencies to confront and defeat all forms of terrorism and criminality threatening the peace and stability of the region.
He urged residents to remain calm, vigilant and law-abiding, while cooperating fully with security agencies by providing credible information that could aid ongoing investigations.
“Now, more than ever, we must stand united against forces of terror. Our resolve to secure our region remains unshaken, and together, we shall overcome these cowardly acts,” he added.
Governor Inuwa Yahaya prayed for the repose of the souls of those who lost their lives in the tragic incident and called for intensified efforts to ensure that the perpetrators are swiftly brought to justice, as contained in a statement signed by Ismaila Uba Misilli, Director-General (Press Affairs), Government House, Gombe.
In the same vein, Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has condemned in the strongest terms the explosion that occurred in some parts of the metropolis on Monday evening.
Babagana Zulum, who is currently in Saudi Arabia for the Lesser Hajj, described the attack as despicable, cruel, and cowardly, targeting innocent people in the holy month of Ramadan.
In a statement, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media, Dauda Iliya, called for increased vigilance and heightened security measures, particularly in places of worship, as the festive period beckons.
“I am deeply saddened by the explosions that occurred in parts of the metropolis on Monday evening. My thoughts and prayers are with the families of the victims and those injured as a result of the blast. The act is utterly condemnable, barbaric, and inhumane,” stated Babagana Zulum.
He added, “The recent surge in attacks is not unconnected with intense military operations in the Sambisa forest and other hideouts of the insurgents.
The Governor, therefore, assured people of the state that the military and other security agencies are on top of the situation, as adequate measures have been taken to forestall any security breach in Maiduguri and the entire state.
He then called on residents to remain calm, go about their usual activities, and report any suspicious movement or activity to security agencies.
Northern States Governors Forum
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