The Northern States Governors Forum has decried the deadly attack on Kasuwan Daji Market in the Demo community of Borgu Local Government Area, Niger State, describing it as a cruel act against innocent citizens.
The attack, reportedly carried out by suspected terrorists, claimed the lives of at least 30 traders, including women. Several others were abducted, while the market was set ablaze, bringing economic activities in the area to a halt.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Gombe State, Inuwa Yahaya, said he was deeply shocked by the incident, noting that it caused immense pain and hardship for families and affected communities.
Governor Yahaya described the attack on traders and market women as morally wrong and a serious threat to peace and livelihoods in the region. He called on security agencies to intensify efforts to track down the perpetrators and ensure they are brought to justice.
The Forum extended its condolences to the families of the victims, the Niger State Government and the affected communities, while praying for the peaceful repose of the souls of the deceased.
He assured that northern governors would continue to work closely with the Federal Government and security agencies to strengthen the security architecture across the region.
Meanwhile, the Forum also mourned the victims of a boat accident in Yobe State, where a passenger boat capsized on the Yobe River in Garbi town, Nguru Local Government Area. The incident led to the death of at least 25 passengers, while 14 others were still missing as of the time of the report.
Describing the accident as tragic, Governor Yahaya stressed the need to prioritise safety in water transportation. He urged relevant authorities to intensify search and rescue operations, provide medical care for survivors and strictly enforce safety regulations.
The Forum called on residents of the North to remain calm and united, reaffirming its commitment to tackling insecurity and improving emergency response systems.
[NAN]