Maiduguri blast: Northern governors, Ndume condemn attack, call for urgent action

By Ndahi Marama, Maiduguri

The Chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, 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.

Also, Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume (Borno South) has commiserated with the families of those killed and wished the injured ones a quick recovery, even as he condemned the heinous act.

Already, the Borno State Police Command, in a statement through its spokesman, ASP Keneth Daso, said 23 persons lost their lives, while 108 sustained injuries in the triple suicide bomb explosions; however, some sources said the death toll is higher than 23.

In a press statement signed by the Director-General (Press Affairs) of Government House, Gombe, Ismaila Uba Misilli, on Tuesday morning on behalf of his boss, the Gombe State Governor, said 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.

He said, ‘Governor Yahaya, in his capacity as Chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum, 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 also a cruel attempt to instil 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 sympathised 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.

Likewise, Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume, representing Borno South, has strongly condemned the tragic bomb explosion reportedly carried out by Boko Haram elements in Maiduguri, which has claimed several lives and left many others injured.

The Senator described the attack as barbaric, inhumane, and a direct assault on innocent citizens, particularly in a densely populated area such as Monday Market and UMTH.

Ndume, who is currently in Saudi Arabia performing Umrah, expressed deep sorrow over the incident and reiterated his commitment to advocating for improved security measures across Borno State and the nation at large. He noted that the recurring threats to civilian lives must be confronted with renewed urgency and coordinated action.

In his message of condolence, the lawmaker sympathised with the Executive Governor of Borno State, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum; the bereaved families; those injured in the attack; as well as the management of Monday Market and the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH), where victims are receiving treatment.

“I cannot begin to imagine the pain and burden on our governor at this moment. This is a deeply heartbreaking situation for him and for all of us. May Allah grant us comfort, strength, and healing,” the Senator stated.

He further commended the bravery and swift response of security agencies, urging them to intensify efforts in protecting lives and preventing future occurrences.

Senator Ndume also called on citizens to remain vigilant, especially as the Eid celebrations approach, stressing that security is a collective responsibility.

“I urge all residents, not only in Maiduguri but across Borno State, particularly in Borno South, to stay alert and report any suspicious activity. We must not let our guard down at this critical time,” he added.

He concluded by praying for the repose of the souls of the deceased, speedy recovery for the injured, and lasting peace in Borno State and Nigeria as a whole.

The post Maiduguri blast: Northern governors, Ndume condemn attack, call for urgent action appeared first on Vanguard News.