“A deeply disturbing incident” – Southern governors react to killing of 42 people in Niger

The governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun has reacted to the Saturday killing of over 40 people in Agwarra and Borgu Local Government Areas of Niger State by terrorists.

The governor who doubles as the chairman of the Southern Governors’ Forum described the killing of residents and abduction of several others in a terrorists’  attack at a populous market as callous.

In a statement issued on Sunday, Abiodun while commiserating with the Niger State governor, Umar Bago and the people of the state said the attack by the criminals is a crime against humanity.

He also called on security agencies to take swift steps towards apprehending the perpetrators of the deadly act.

According to the governor, the brutality against the people of Niger must not go unpunished.

“On behalf of the Government and people of Ogun State and my colleagues in the Southern Governors’ Forum, I commiserate with the Government and people of Niger State over the dastardly attacks by terrorists that left 42 people dead and many others abducted.

“I urge His Excellency, Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, not to allow this terrible incident to dampen his morale and determination to safeguard lives and property in Niger State,” Governor Abiodun said.

Also stating that such an act must not be allowed to recur, the governor said the continued attack on innocent Nigerians is a stain on the conscience of the nation.

“The cowardly onslaught on innocent citizens going about their lawful business represents a blight on our country. It is a horrendous incident that must never be allowed to happen again.

“I commiserate with the families who have lost their loved ones and pray that Almighty God grants them the fortitude to survive this terrible ordeal,” the governor said.