Northern govs to security agencies: Halt Boko Haram killings now

The Northern States Governors Forum (NSGF) has expressed shock and sadness at the killing of seven policemen and a civilian in a raid on Gwaram town in Jigawa State on Wednesday, urging the insurgents to immediately stop the attacks.

Chairman of the forum and Governor of Niger State, Dr. Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu expressed the forum’s deepest condolences to the families of the victims as well as the police high command, saying no grievance can justify such a dastardly act against law enforcement agents.

In a statement signed by Governor Aliyu’s spokesman, Danladi Ndayebo, the forum also condemned the killing of several farmers and destruction of property by suspected herdsmen in Wukari, Taraba State, describing it as one attack too many.

The statement called on security agencies to ensure that the perpetrators are caught and brought to justice, to prevent a reoccurrence, emphasizing that a situation where security personnel on whose shoulders lie the responsibility of protecting lives and property become easy targets for criminals was unacceptable.

The statement lamented frequent attacks on the police and other security agents, saying the nation cannot afford a situation where criminal elements will overwhelm state security apparatus.

The forum said Northern Governors were working closely with the federal government in the nation’s fight against terrorism and further assured citizens of their safety wherever they live.

The Governors prayed God to grant the souls of the deceased eternal rest and members of their families the fortitude to bear the loss.