Northern Governors Condemn Niger Market Attack, Mourn Yobe Boat Tragedy

The Northern States Governors Forum (NSGF) has strongly condemned a violent terrorist attack on a market in Niger State and expressed deep sorrow over a deadly boat accident in Yobe State, highlighting urgent concerns about security and public safety across northern Nigeria.

Terrorist Attack at Kasuwan Daji Market

The forum denounced the assault at Kasuwan Daji Market in the Demo community of Borgu Local Government Area as a brutal attack on innocent citizens. Reports indicate that at least 30 traders, including women, were killed, many were abducted, and the market was set on fire during the assault by suspected terrorists.

Speaking on behalf of his colleagues, the NSGF Chairman and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, described the incident as shocking and morally reprehensible. He emphasised that targeting market traders and citizens engaged in lawful activities strikes at the very heart of communal harmony and regional economic life.

Governor Yahaya called on security agencies to intensify efforts to track down and apprehend the perpetrators, ensuring that they face justice. He also extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims, the people of Niger State, and all affected communities, while praying for strength for the bereaved and the safe rescue of those abducted.

The forum reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with federal and security authorities to strengthen regional security and safeguard lives and livelihoods across northern states.

Tragic Boat Accident in Yobe State

In a related tragedy, the NSGF mourned a fatal boat mishap on the Yobe River in Garbi town, Nguru Local Government Area, where a canoe carrying passengers capsizing during a return from local commercial activities.

Official reports confirmed that at least 25 people lost their lives and 14 remain missing, while several survivors were rescued and receiving medical attention.

Governor Yahaya described the incident as a painful reminder of the urgent need to prioritise safety in all forms of transportation. He urged relevant authorities to intensify search and rescue operations, ensure immediate medical care for survivors, and enforce strict safety protocols to prevent such accidents in the future.

Call for Unity and Support

The NSGF appealed to citizens across northern states to remain united, calm, and compassionate, supporting one another during these challenging times. The forum reiterated its commitment to working with all relevant agencies to tackle insecurity, strengthen emergency response systems, and support communities affected by violent attacks and accidents.

Key Points:

• Terrorist attacks in Niger State have disrupted communities, resulting in deaths, abductions, and destruction of property.
• Water transportation in Yobe State remains risky, with significant loss of life highlighting the need for improved safety measures.
• Regional leaders are calling for enhanced security, stricter enforcement of safety protocols, and collective support for affected families and communities.

These incidents underscore the urgent challenges of insecurity and infrastructural vulnerabilities in northern Nigeria, demanding coordinated action from authorities and community support to protect lives and livelihoods.

By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
Akahi News www.akahinews.org