Northern Govs Decry Niger Market Attack, Mourn Yobe Boat Tragedy

The Northern States Governors’ Forum has condemned the deadly bandit attack on a market in Niger State and expressed grief over a separate boat mishap in Yobe State that claimed many lives.

In a statement issued on Monday, the chairman of the forum and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, described the Niger market attack as a barbaric act against innocent citizens and a serious setback to peace and economic activities in the region.

He said the incident, which reportedly left dozens dead, underscored the lingering security challenges confronting the North, urging security agencies to intensify efforts to track down the perpetrators and bring them to justice.

The governors extended their condolences to the families of those killed and prayed for the safe rescue of persons said to have been abducted during the attack.

The forum also mourned victims of the boat capsize in Yobe State, which claimed at least 25 lives, with several others still missing.

Describing the accident as tragic and heartbreaking, the governors called for stricter enforcement of safety measures in water transportation to prevent future occurrences, particularly in riverine communities.

They urged relevant authorities to review existing transportation safety protocols and ensure full compliance across the region.

Reaffirming their commitment to regional stability, the northern governors pledged continued collaboration with the Federal Government, security agencies and emergency responders to strengthen security architecture and improve emergency response mechanisms in the North.