The Gombe State Government has expressed deep sorrow over the recent incident in Billiri Local Government Area, offering condolences to victims and their families while providing immediate relief support.
Governor Inuwa Yahaya, represented by Deputy Governor Manassah Daniel Jatau, Ph.D, led a high-powered delegation to Powushi Shobbule in Kalmai Ward, where the team inspected the damage, interacted with affected residents, and distributed relief materials.
Dr. Jatau, speaking on behalf of the governor, described the incident as a stark reminder of challenges faced despite ongoing government efforts to ensure peace and security. He assured residents that a thorough investigation would be conducted to determine the immediate and underlying causes of the tragedy.
“The investigation will extend beyond Billiri to neighboring LGAs and other areas to provide a lasting solution to such incidents,” Jatau said.
He announced the provision of N5 million and emergency relief items, including food, clothing, blankets, mosquito nets, toiletries, and mats, to cushion the immediate hardship faced by the victims.
The Deputy Governor urged residents to remain peaceful, cooperate with security agencies, and report suspicious activities to avert future occurrences. He emphasized that the incident should serve as a wake-up call for vigilance.
At the palace of the Mai Tangle, Alhaji Danladi Sanusi Maiyamba, the Deputy Governor conveyed the government’s condolences and called for unity among residents. In response, the Mai Tangle appreciated the government’s swift intervention and urged strict measures to prevent further clashes, particularly through the enforcement of grazing and cattle route regulations.
The District Head of Kalmai, Mr. Zubairu Ahmadu, thanked the government for its prompt response, calling for measures to ensure herders do not cross boundaries during harvest seasons.
Chairperson of Billiri Local Government, Mrs. Eglah Idris, also appreciated the government’s intervention, urging residents to avoid politicizing the incident and accept it as a challenge that can be overcome through unity and cooperation.
Relief materials distributed included 250 bags of rice, 50 cartons of vegetable oil, 40 bags of salt, 200 bags of maize, 10 belts of blankets, 10 belts of nylon mats, 50 cartons of soap, 100 plastic buckets, 10 belts of mosquito nets, 5 belts of women wrappers, and 5 belts of guinea brocade.
The delegation included the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Ibrahim Abubakar Njodi; Chief of Staff, Alh. Abubakar Inuwa Kari; Commissioners; security chiefs, and other top government officials.
The government reiterated its commitment to addressing security concerns and ensuring the safety of lives and property in the state.
