Maiduguri Blasts: Gov Buni Visits Borno, Donates N10m To Victims

Yobe State Governor, Hon Mai Mala Buni, has visited Borno State to sympathise with the government and people over the recent multiple bomb blasts in Maiduguri which claimed over 23 lives and left several others injured.

Governor Buni, who was represented by his Deputy, Hon. Idi Barde Gubana, led a high-powered delegation to the Borno State capital to commiserate with victims, their families, and the entire people of the state over the tragic incident.

Speaking during the visit, Gubana conveyed the heartfelt condolences of the Yobe State Government and its people, noting that Governor Buni would have personally undertaken the visit but for his current engagement in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia where he is performing the lesser Hajj.

A statement issued by the Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor, Hussaini Mai Suleh said the governor described the attacks as “unfortunate and barbaric,” stressing that the victims were innocent citizens who were merely going about their lawful daily activities when the incident occurred.

“Our hearts bleed over this tragic loss of innocent lives. These are people with no link whatsoever to violence, yet they have become victims while trying to earn a living.

“We pray that Almighty Allah forgives those who lost their lives and grants quick recovery to those injured,” he said.

The deputy governor emphasised that Yobe and Borno States share historical, cultural and security ties, adding that any incident affecting Borno invariably affects Yobe.

He urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious movements or persons to security agencies, stressing that security remains a collective responsibility that requires the active participation of all citizens.

Gubana also called on the people to intensify prayers for sustained peace, unity and stability in the North-East and the country at large.

As part of efforts to cushion the impact of the tragedy, the Yobe State Government donated the sum of N10 million to support victims of the blasts and the families of those who lost their lives.

He further commended the Federal Government and frontline security personnel for their renewed commitment and sacrifices in the ongoing fight against insurgency, expressing optimism that lasting peace would soon be restored in the region.

Responding, Borno State Deputy Governor, Alhaji Umar Usman Kadafur, expressed appreciation to Governor Buni and the people of Yobe State for the visit and the show of solidarity during the difficult time.

Kadafur noted that both Borno and Yobe States continue to face similar security challenges, particularly with the ongoing military operations in the Sambisa Forest aimed at dismantling Boko Haram strongholds.

According to him, the sustained offensive against insurgents has led to the displacement of some elements who now resort to desperate attacks in urban areas using improvised explosive devices.

He therefore called for stronger collaboration between the two states as well as continued support for security agencies in addressing the recurring security threats.

The deputy governor also urged citizens across the two states to remain law-abiding, vigilant and prayerful, stressing the need for unity in overcoming the security challenges confronting the region.

The Yobe State delegation included the Secretary to the State Government, commissioners, special advisers and other top government functionaries who accompanied the deputy governor on the condolence visit.