The Northern States Governors Forum has condemned the deadly bandit attack on a market in Niger State. The forum also expressed deep sorrow over a separate boat accident in Yobe State that claimed several lives.
In a statement issued on behalf of the forum, its chairman and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, described the attack on the Niger market as a cruel assault on innocent citizens and a serious threat to peace and economic activities in the region.
He noted that the incident, which reportedly claimed dozens of lives, highlighting the persistent security challenges facing northern states, calling on security agencies to intensify efforts to track down and bring the perpetrators to justice.
The governors extended their condolences to the families of those killed in the attack and prayed for the safe rescue of persons reportedly abducted during the incident.
The forum also mourned the victims of the boat capsize in Yobe State, which claimed at least 29 lives, while several others are 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 charged relevant authorities to review and enforce transportation safety protocols, particularly in riverine communities.
Reaffirming their commitment to regional stability, the northern governors pledged continued collaboration with federal authorities, security agencies and emergency services to strengthen security architecture and emergency response across the region.
