The Northern States Governors Forum (NSGF) has condemned in the strongest terms the terrorist attack at Kasuwan Daji Market in Demo community, Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State, describing it as a brutal assault on innocent citizens and a grave threat to peace and livelihoods.

Reports indicate that at least 30 traders, including women, were killed, many others abducted, and the market set ablaze during the attack by suspected terrorists.

Speaking on behalf of the forum, Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State, NSGF Chairman, expressed shock and outrage over the incident, noting its devastating impact on families, local commerce, and regional stability. He described the attack as morally reprehensible and urged security agencies to intensify efforts to apprehend the perpetrators and bring them to justice.

The forum extended its deepest condolences to the families of the victims, the Government and people of Niger State, and all affected communities, praying for strength for the bereaved and the swift rescue of abducted persons. Governor Inuwa Yahaya also assured continued collaboration with federal and security agencies to strengthen northern security systems and protect lives and livelihoods.

Yobe Boat Tragedy

The NSGF also mourned the capsizing of a passenger boat along the Yobe River in Garbi town, Nguru Local Government Area, in which at least 25 people lost their lives and 14 remain missing. The victims were reportedly returning from local commercial activities when the incident occurred.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya described the tragedy as a painful reminder of the urgent need to prioritise safety in all forms of transportation. The forum called on authorities to intensify search and rescue operations, provide immediate medical attention to survivors, and enforce safety protocols to prevent similar incidents.

The NSGF appealed to citizens across the North to remain united, calm, and compassionate, supporting one another during difficult times, while reaffirming its commitment to strengthening emergency responses and tackling insecurity.