Ben Ngwakwe, Gombe
The Chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Yahaya, on Tuesday 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, left many feared dead and several others injured.
In a statement issued on his behalf by Director-General Press Affairs Gombe Government House Ismaila Misilli, Yahaya expressed deep sorrow over the tragic incident and extended condolences to the government and people of Borno State, particularly families who lost loved ones.
“This senseless act of violence is reprehensible and a cruel attempt to instill fear while undermining the fragile peace in the North-East. It is an attack on our shared humanity and must be condemned in the strongest terms,” he said.
He also sympathised with victims receiving treatment in various hospitals and prayed for their speedy recovery, while commending first responders and security agencies for their swift response.
“We stand in solidarity with the victims and commend the courage of our emergency responders and security personnel who acted promptly to contain the situation,” he added.
Governor Yahaya reaffirmed the commitment of Northern Governors to work closely with the Federal Government and security agencies to confront terrorism and criminality.
“We remain resolute in our collective efforts to defeat all forms of terror threatening the peace and stability of our region,” he stated.
He urged residents to remain calm, vigilant, and law-abiding, and to cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information to support ongoing investigations.
“Now, more than ever, we must unite against forces of terror. Our determination to secure our region is unwavering, and together, we will overcome these cowardly acts,” he said.
The governor also called for intensified efforts to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
“We urge security agencies to intensify efforts to track down and prosecute the perpetrators of this heinous crime without delay,” he said.
Yahaya prayed for the repose of the souls of the deceased.
“May the souls of the departed rest in peace, and may their families find the strength to bear this irreparable loss,” he concluded.
