Vice President Kashim Shettima has issued a firm promise to bring an end to violent attacks, following a devastating bomb explosion in Maiduguri, Borno State. The blast occurred on Wednesday at the Gamboru Market, targeting innocent civilians and causing significant casualties.
Sympathy Visit and Government Assurance
On Friday, Vice President Shettima, accompanied by Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, visited survivors receiving treatment at the Muhammadu Buhari Trauma Centre. He conveyed the heartfelt sympathy of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the entire Federal Government to the victims and their families.
Shettima described the attack as senseless and heartbreaking, reaffirming the government's constitutional duty to protect every Nigerian. "We are here on behalf of the President to sympathise with the victims and to reassure the good people of Borno State, and indeed the entire nation, that the government remains unwavering in its commitment to secure lives and property," the Vice President stated.
He expressed strong optimism, declaring, "By the grace of God, this violence will soon be brought to an end."
Casualty Figures and Security Response
During the visit, the Chief Medical Director of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital provided a briefing on the casualties. Fourteen patients were admitted following the blast. Tragically, one victim died shortly after arrival. As of the visit, seven victims remained on admission, with one in critical condition in the intensive care unit. Five others had been treated and discharged.
Shettima disclosed that President Tinubu had already ordered immediate action. Additional tactical security teams have been deployed to Borno State with a mandate to track down and apprehend the perpetrators of the Gamboru Market mosque attack.
"The Federal Government will not tolerate any attempt to destabilise our country or threaten the lives of innocent Nigerians," Shettima emphasized. He outlined that the presidential directive includes intensified intelligence gathering, surveillance, and joint security operations aimed at swiftly restoring calm and preventing further attacks. All relevant security agencies have been placed on high alert.
Collaboration for Lasting Peace
The Vice President took a moment to commend Governor Babagana Zulum for his relentless efforts in tackling the security and humanitarian challenges facing Borno State. He assured that the Federal Government would continue to deepen its collaboration with the state government to achieve lasting peace.
"The Governor has been working round the clock to complement federal efforts. I sincerely appreciate his commitment," Shettima said. He concluded by reinforcing the unity of the nation, describing Nigeria as "one nation, united in both challenges and victory."
The attack has been condemned as a despicable assault on worshippers and a direct challenge to national peace and stability. The government's message is clear: those responsible will be pursued and brought to justice.
