Why Is the ADC Inaugurating Zonal Congress Committees, Why Is It Rejecting Any Alliance With Atiku, Obi, Kwankwaso, and Jonathan, and What Does This Signal for Nigeria’s 2027 Politics?

A faction of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has moved to strengthen its internal structure by inaugurating Zonal Congress Committees across three geopolitical zones, while firmly rejecting widespread speculation that the party is aligning with major political figures such as Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rabiu Kwankwaso, and Goodluck Jonathan.

In a communique signed by the party’s National Chairman, Hon. Nafiu Bala Gombe, the ADC said the exercise was part of efforts to entrench internal democracy, transparency, and strict adherence to the party’s constitution ahead of future elections.

According to the statement, the South-West Zonal Congress Committee was inaugurated in Ekiti State on January 7, 2026, with Hon. Bala Sani named Chairman and Hon. Kyauta Yakubu heading the Appeal Committee. The ceremony was conducted by the National Chairman himself.

In the South-East, a similar inauguration took place in Enugu State on the same date. Barrister Adamu Ado Dauda was appointed Chairman of the Congress Committee, while Mrs. Iyabo Salami Alibi was named head of the Appeal Committee. The event was presided over by the Secretary of the party’s Board of Trustees (BoT), Chief Rufus Ekenmi.

Earlier, on January 5, 2026, the party inaugurated its North-Central Zonal Congress Committee, appointing Hon. Lolo Ehirudu as Chairman of the Congress Committee and Hon. Sa’ad Aboki as head of the Appeal Committee.

Beyond organisational matters, the ADC used the occasion to directly address growing rumours of a possible political alliance with prominent national figures. The party categorically dismissed claims linking it to Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso, and former President Goodluck Jonathan.

“The National Leadership reiterates its unwavering commitment to the principles of internal democracy, transparency, and strict adherence to the party’s constitution,” the communique stated, urging members and the public to “disregard and ignore” all reports of external political alignments. The party stressed that its focus remains on building “a strong, independent, and ideologically driven platform.”

The ADC also emphasised that only duly registered and financially up-to-date members would be eligible to vote or contest in its congresses and internal elections, reinforcing its claim of commitment to internal order and party discipline.

By distancing itself from Nigeria’s most recognisable political heavyweights, the party appears determined to project itself as an independent alternative within the country’s democratic space—one that is not defined by elite coalitions or personality-driven politics.

As speculation continues over emerging alliances ahead of future elections, observers are asking: Why is the ADC rejecting any association with established political figures? Is the party positioning itself as a third-force movement, or is this a strategic move to consolidate its base before engaging in broader negotiations? And could this internal reorganisation reshape opposition politics in Nigeria ahead of 2027?

The ADC insists its direction is clear: no external alliances, strict internal democracy, and a people-centred political platform—a stance that may test both its independence and its appeal in Nigeria’s highly competitive political landscape.

Gombe Government Gives ₦14 Million to Families of Seven Journalists Killed in Tragic Road Crash After Wedding Trip

The Gombe State Government has disbursed a total of ₦14 million to the families of seven journalists who lost their lives in a fatal road accident while returning from a colleague’s wedding in Kaltungo Local Government Area of the state. The presentation, made on Friday on behalf of Governor Inuwa Yahaya by the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Abubakar Njodi, saw each bereaved family receive ₦2 million as financial support to help cover burial expenses.

Njodi described the gesture as a token of sympathy, stressing that the government was deeply saddened by the tragic loss, particularly because of the number of journalists involved in a single incident. He noted that the deceased media practitioners had contributed significantly to public communication and governance in the state, adding that no amount of money could compensate for the lives lost.

The National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Alhassan Yahya, thanked the Gombe State Government for standing with the families, while also highlighting the recurring dangers journalists face in the line of duty. He called for improved welfare and insurance coverage for media professionals, revealing plans by the NUJ to launch a new insurance scheme by March to enhance journalists’ safety and wellbeing nationwide.

Gombe Government Disburses N14 Million to Families of 7 Deceased Journalists

The Gombe State Government has disbursed a total of N14 million to the families of seven journalists who lost their lives in a tragic motor accident along the Billiri-Kumo Road.

The fatal crash occurred on Monday, December 29, 2025, as the journalists were returning from the wedding ceremony of a colleague in Kaltungo Local Government Area.

Each bereaved family received N2 million from Gombe State Government as financial support to augment burial and related expenses.

The intervention is part of Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya’s commitment to cushioning the impact of the painful loss on the affected families.

Presiding over the disbursement exercise on behalf of the Governor, the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Ibrahim Abubakar Njodi, disclosed that an initial token of support had earlier been provided to the families of the injured victims immediately after the incident.

He added that the Governor has also assumed full responsibility for the medical treatment and hospital bills of those who sustained injuries and are currently receiving care.

Professor Njodi reiterated the commitment of the present administration to the welfare of journalists, expressing deep sorrow over the monumental loss to the state and the media profession.

“Our hearts have been restless since this tragic incident. While we cannot bring back the departed or fully compensate for the loss, His Excellency has approved this support to assist with burial expenses, just as the government has taken full responsibility for the medical bills of those who survived,” he said.

He stressed that the funds were not compensation, but a gesture of compassion aimed at supporting the families during this difficult period.

Professor Njodi further conveyed the Governor’s heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), the management of the National Television Authority (NTA) and the entire media community, urging the bereaved families to take solace in the will of Allah.

Speaking during the event, the National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Comrade Alhassan Yahaya Abdullahi, expressed profound appreciation to the Gombe State Government for what he described as a swift, compassionate and unprecedented intervention.

He noted that the NUJ members nationwide were deeply grateful for the support extended to both the families of the deceased and journalists currently receiving medical treatment.

Comrade Alhassan Yahaya also called on the Federal Government to fast-track the implementation of life and health insurance schemes for journalists, urging state governments, including Gombe, to key in once the policy is implemented.

The General Manager of NTA Gombe, Abubakar Adamu, conveyed the appreciation of the Director-General of the NTA, Salihu Dembos to Governor Inuwa Yahaya for his generousity and compassion stating that the entire NTA family across the country holds the Gombe State Government in high esteem for the gesture.

Speaking on behalf of the bereaved families, Barrister Abubakar Ahmed praised Governor Inuwa Yahaya for the gesture, describing the intervention as the first of its kind in the history of the state.

“This support of N2 million to each family will go a long way in addressing both the immediate and long-term needs of the dependants. We truly lack words to express our gratitude. May Allah reward the Governor and his administration abundantly,” he said.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya Meets AIG Zone 12 , Restates Zero Tolerance for Crime in Gombe

Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, earlier in the week held a high-level security meeting with the Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG), Zone 12, in charge of Bauchi and Gombe States, AIG Abubakar Sadiq Aliyu, to address recent security challenges in the state.

The meeting, came against the backdrop of the recent unfortunate incident in Pindiga community, Akko Local Government Area, where two persons were killed and three others abducted by unknown gunmen.

During the meeting, the Governor and the AIG reviewed the security situation across the state, with emphasis on strengthening intelligence gathering, boosting police presence, and enhancing rapid response capabilities to prevent further breaches of peace.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya reiterated his administration’s zero tolerance for criminality, stressing that the protection of lives and property remains a non-negotiable priority.

He assured the police of the state government’s support and commitment to deploying all lawful measures to ensure sustained peace and stability in Gombe State.

AIG Sadiq Aliyu commended the Governor’s proactive leadership and support for security agencies, assuring that the Nigeria Police Force has intensified efforts to track down the perpetrators and bring them to justice, while strengthening preventive operations.

He also pledged improved coordination among security agencies under Zone 12, noting that actionable intelligence and community collaboration would be key to restoring calm.

The AIG was accompanied by the Commissioner of Police, Gombe State Command, and other senior officers of the Nigeria Police Force.

DG NTA, NUJ President Lead Condolence Visit to Families of Deceased NTA Gombe Staff

The Director-General of the Nigerian Television Authority, alongside the National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, has led a powerful delegation to Gombe State to commiserate with the families of NTA Gombe staff and other journalists who lost their lives in a ghastly road accident on Monday.

5 Journalists Die in Gombe Road Accident While Returning from Wedding, Funeral Held

Five journalists tragically lost their lives in a motor accident on the Gombe–Yola highway while returning from a colleague’s wedding ceremony. The deceased, including staff from the Nigeria Television Authority (NTA), were honored with funeral prayers at the Bubayero Central Mosque, Gombe, while one victim, Hajiya Zahra Umar Adamu, was buried in her home state, Kano.

Two survivors were hospitalized, with the Gombe State Government covering their medical expenses. Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya described the incident as a painful loss to the state and the journalism profession, offering condolences and pledging support for the victims’ families. Preliminary reports suggest the crash was caused by a burst tyre on the bus conveying the journalists.

The tragedy has highlighted concerns over road safety, with multiple accidents reported across Gombe and Plateau states during the festive period.

10 Nigerian States Plan N4.28tn Borrowing to Fund 2026 Budgets Amid Fiscal Concerns

Ten Nigerian states—including Lagos, Ogun, Abia, Enugu, Osun, Delta, Sokoto, Edo, Bayelsa, and Gombe—plan to raise a combined N4.287 trillion through loans, bonds, grants, and public-private partnerships to fund their 2026 budgets. The states’ total budgets amount to N14.174 trillion, highlighting growing reliance on non-recurring funds beyond federal allocations and internally generated revenue. Lagos, Ogun, and Abia are leading in borrowing for capital projects. Analysts warn that excessive reliance on debt could strain fiscal sustainability and increase debt servicing costs. Experts also emphasize the need for improved revenue management and fiscal discipline to reduce dependence on borrowing.

#NigeriaEconomy #StateBudgets2026 #FiscalSustainability #Borrowing #InfrastructureFunding

Tragedy in Gombe: 7 Journalists Killed, 4 Injured in Fatal Road Accident While Returning from Wedding Ceremony

At least seven journalists died in a road accident along the Yola–Kumo road in Gombe State on December 29, 2025, after the Billiri axis. The victims were returning from a colleague’s wedding ceremony in Billiri LGA. Preliminary reports indicate the crash was caused by a burst tyre. The deceased include staff of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) and other media workers. Four persons sustained injuries and were hospitalized. Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya expressed condolences, while emergency teams continue to respond to the tragic incident.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya Attends Funeral Prayers for Journalists Lost in Auto-Crash, Visits Survivors at FTH Gombe

...'Gombe Govt to Cover Medical Bills of Survivors, Assist with Funeral Expenses'

Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, has led a state government delegation to the funeral prayers of journalists who lost their lives in a tragic auto-crash.

The deceased were among journalists and media workers involved in the fatal accident that occurred along the Billiri-Kumo Road while they were returning from Kaltungo, where they had attended the wedding ceremony of a colleague.

The funeral prayer, held at the Bubayero Central Mosque, Emir's Palace, Gombe, led by Imam Aliyu Hammari and attracted a large turnout of sympathisers, including grieving family members, colleagues from the media industry and top government officials.

Among those in attendance was the Emir of Gombe, His Royal Highness Alhaji Abubakar Shehu Abubakar III, CFR.

A visibly saddened Governor Inuwa Yahaya described the demise of the seven journalists as a painful loss to Gombe State and the media profession, noting that the state had lost dedicated professionals who served with commitment.

After the funeral prayers, the Governor proceeded to the Federal Teaching Hospital (FTH), Gombe, to personally assess the condition of the survivors who are currently receiving medical attention.

Speaking to journalists after the visit, Governor Inuwa Yahaya expressed gratitude to God for sparing the lives of the survivors, while praying for their speedy recovery.

“We must thank Almighty God for sparing their lives, not because they are better than those who passed on, but because it was destined so. Our most important duty now is to continue praying for their quick and complete recovery. For those who lost their lives, we will not relent in praying for the repose of their souls, in view of the enormous contributions they made to journalism and public service,” the Governor said.

He extended the state government’s heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased, their respective organizations and the entire media fraternity, urging them to accept the tragic loss as an act of God.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya also announced that the Gombe State Government has taken over the full medical bills of all the injured victims, assuring that the government would provide every necessary support to aid their recovery.

“As a government, we will do everything within our means to support the victims and their families in this difficult time,” he assured.

During the visit to the Accident and Emergency Unit, the Governor was conducted round the ward by the Chairman of the Hospital Advisory Committee, Dr. Bukar Lakube and Commissioner for Health, Dr. Habu Dahiru, to assess the condition of the patients. He also extended financial support to other patients in the unit, to help cushion burden on them and their families.

The Governor was accompanied on the visit by his Deputy, Dr. Manassah Daniel Jatau; the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Ibrahim Abubakar Njodi; Commissioners; and other senior government officials.

Info Min Mourns Gombe Journalists

The Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris,, has expressed deep shock and sorrow over the tragic death of seven journalists who were confirmed killed in a lone road crash in the Gombe South area of Gombe State on Monday.

The incident occurred on Monday evening as the journalists were returning from a wedding ceremony in the Gombe South Senatorial District. They were said to have travelled in solidarity with a colleague from the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) who was getting married.

In a statement the special assistant on media to the Minister, Rabiu Ibrahim said the Minister described the tragedy as a heartbreaking loss to the media community and the nation, noting that the journalists were committed voices who informed the public with courage, integrity, and professionalism.

The Minister extended his condolences to the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), the Gombe State Council, and especially the families, friends, and colleagues of the deceased. He prayed that God would grant them the strength to bear the painful loss.

Minister Idris assured that the Federal Government stands with the bereaved families and the media community during this moment of grief.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya Deeply Mourns Journalists Lost in Tragic Accident

Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, has received with overwhelming grief, shock and deep emotional pain the tragic news of the fatal accident involving journalists, staff of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Gombe and Ministry of Information.

The accident occurred along the Billiri-Kumo Road while the victims were returning from the wedding ceremony of their colleague in Kaltungo.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya described the incident as a heart-rending tragedy that has plunged Gombe State into mourning, noting that the loss goes beyond families and institutions to the very soul of the state’s media and public service community.

Those who lost their lives in the unfortunate incident include: Zarah Umar, Manager News and Senior Special Assistant to the Governor in the Office of the First Lady; Manu Haruna Kwami, Manager Administration NTA; Isa Lawan; Musa Tabra, a Retired Manager News; Aminu Adamu, Senior Driver; Adams Danladi of StarTimes; and Judith Kutus, Information Officer with the Gombe State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB).

The Governor said the deceased were committed professionals who dedicated their lives to informing, educating and serving the people, describing their deaths as a devastating blow to journalism, public service and governance in Gombe State.

“This tragedy is deeply painful. We have lost colleagues, partners in progress, and devoted public servants who served with passion and a strong sense of duty. Their absence will be felt for a long time,” the Governor said.

He extended his deepest condolences to the families of the deceased, the leadership and members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, the management and staff of the Nigerian Television Authorityand the entire media fraternity within and beyond Gombe State.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya also expressed grave concern for the injured victims currently receiving medical attention, including Emmanuel Akila (NTA Government House Correspondent), Steven Doddo of NTA Marketing Department, Nina Gadal (Ministry of Information), and Jonathan Bara, Manager, Marketing, NTA, assuring them of the government’s full support.

“Our hearts are with the injured, and we pray earnestly for their speedy and complete recovery. The Government of Gombe State is following the situation closely and will ensure that all necessary assistance is provided,” he said.

“This is a dark moment for Gombe State. We mourn together, we grieve together, and we pray that Almighty God protects us all from such tragic occurrences,” the Governor added.

The Governor prayed Almighty God to grant the departed souls eternal rest and give the bereaved families, colleagues and loved ones the strength to bear the heavy loss.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya Signs N617.95bn 2026 Budget into Law, Says Gombe Will Continue to Lead with Action

...Gombe Takes the Lead, Appropriates N12bn for Northern Security Fund

Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, has signed the 2026 Appropriation Bill of Gombe State into law, giving the force of law for the implementation of the N617.95 billion “Budget of Consolidation.”

The signing ceremony, which took place at the Council Chamber of the Government House, Gombe, followed the formal presentation of the Appropriation Bill as passed by members of the Gombe State House of Assembly, led by the Speaker, Hon. Abubakar Mohammed Luggerewo.

The 2026 budget makes provision for N189 billion as recurrent expenditure, accounting for 21.6 per cent, while N428.5 billion, representing 69.4 per cent, is devoted to capital projects, further reinforcing the administration’s focus on infrastructure, service delivery and long-term growth.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya had initially presented a N535.69 billion budget proposal to the House. After a legislative review, the Assembly approved an upward adjustment of over N82 billion, bringing the total budget size to N617.95 billion.

A key feature of the budget is the allocation of N12 billion for regional security fund, translating to a N1 billion monthly contribution, in line with resolutions of the Northern States Governors’ Forum. The move places Gombe State at the forefront of collective efforts by northern states to confront insecurity through practical and sustained funding.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Governor Inuwa Yahaya reiterated his administration’s commitment to the safety of lives and property, the completion of ongoing legacy projects, and the delivery of people-focused development across both urban and rural communities.

He explained that the 2026 budget prioritises critical sectors such as health, education, social investment, environmental protection, mineral resources development, and includes a special allocation for the Gombe State Commission for Persons with Disabilities (GSCPWD).

“This administration remains fully committed to responding to the needs and aspirations of our people with a budget that is realistic, responsible and centred on the citizen,” the Governor said.

Reflecting on his administration’s record, Governor Inuwa Yahaya noted that no sector of the state’s economy has been neglected since he assumed office.

“In the history of Gombe State, no government has touched the lives of the people across so many sectors like this one. From health and education to infrastructure and social support, the impact is visible,” he stated.

He thanked the House of Assembly for what he described as a thoughtful and people-oriented review of the budget, assuring that the government would maintain the fiscal discipline it is known for.

According to him, budget implementation under his leadership has consistently exceeded 70 per cent.

The Governor also commended the lawmakers for their unity and seriousness during the budget process, describing their full attendance at the presentation of the estimates as a strong sign of mutual respect and cooperation between the executive and legislative arms of government.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Federal Government for their continued support to Gombe State through various development programmes, while appealing for even more interventions in the year ahead.

“We started with work. We are still working. And by the grace of God, we will end with more work,” he said.

Earlier, Speaker Abubakar Luggerewo, said the lawmakers were at the Government House to formally present the 2026 Appropriation Bill for the Governor’s assent.

He disclosed that the House received the budget proposal on 13 November 2025, subjected it to detailed scrutiny, and held an extended session of the Appropriation Committee in Calabar, Cross River State, to enrich the document with additional inputs, leading to modest upward adjustments.

The Speaker praised Governor Inuwa Yahaya for the numerous development projects across the state, particularly in the health, education and other key sectors.

He recalled that a recent health summit organized by the state government drew experts from across the world, most of whom acknowledged Gombe State’s steady progress in healthcare delivery.

Hon. Luggerewo said the Assembly’s adjustments to the budget were made in good faith and in the best interest of the people.

He also appreciated the Governor for ensuring healthy working relationship among the arms of government and for providing the legislature with vehicles and other logistics that have improved their efficiency.

NAFDAC Warns Public About Fake Kiss Condoms Circulating in Nigerian Markets

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued Public Alert No. 042/2025, warning Nigerians about counterfeit "Kiss Condoms" found in major markets including Onitsha, Idumota, Trade Fair, Kano, Abuja, Uyo, Gombe, and Enugu. The fake condoms differ from genuine products in packaging, labelling, and physical characteristics, posing serious health risks such as ineffective protection against pregnancy and STIs. NAFDAC has directed zonal directors and state coordinators to remove falsified products and urged consumers and healthcare professionals to verify product authenticity and report suspected counterfeits.

Bandits Kill Pregnant Woman and Brother, Abduct Two Siblings in Night Attack on Gombe Community

Bandits attacked a private residence in Pindiga town, Akko Local Government Area of Gombe State, late Saturday night, killing a pregnant woman and her brother while abducting two other siblings. Residents said the gunmen stormed the house under cover of darkness, shooting indiscriminately before fleeing with their victims. The brutal incident has thrown the community into mourning and renewed fears over persistent insecurity in the state. Police confirmed the attack and said tactical units, hunters, and vigilante groups have been mobilised to rescue the abducted victims and apprehend the perpetrators, while Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya condemned the killings as barbaric and unacceptable.

NDLEA Destroys Cannabis Warehouses, Seizes Narcotics, and Arrests Businessman Over Lagos Port ‘Loud’ Shipment

Between December 21 and 25, 2025, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) conducted nationwide anti-narcotics operations across Ekiti, Edo, Cross River, Abuja, Lagos, Taraba, and Gombe states. Agents destroyed cannabis warehouses, seized large quantities of drugs, and arrested several traffickers. In Ara-Ekiti, 638kg of skunk cannabis was burned. In Edo, 883.1kg of compressed cannabis was intercepted. Cross River and Abuja operations led to multiple arrests, while in Lagos, Ajoke Dauda and Oluwasegun Felix were apprehended with 45.5kg and 18.5kg of skunk, respectively. Taraba and Gombe also recorded arrests and drug seizures. Notably, businessman Ignatius Egbochie (alias Brown) was arrested in connection with 26kg of high-grade cannabis (“Loud”) seized at Tincan Port on December 10. NDLEA emphasized its commitment to dismantling drug trafficking networks nationwide.

Tragic Gombe Motor Accident Kills 7 Wedding Travelers Along Damaturu–Maiduguri Highway, Victims’ Names Released

Seven residents of Lawanti village in Akko LGA, Gombe State, tragically died in a motor accident on December 27, 2025, along the Damaturu–Maiduguri highway while traveling to a wedding in Maiduguri, Borno State. The victims were identified as Gambo Abbo (35), Umalkhairi (18), Rabiu Abubakar (28), Fatuma Hassan (28), Amal Abubakar (3), Adamu Bello (4), and Zara’u Alhaji (27). Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya expressed deep condolences to the bereaved families, including those of local leaders who lost relatives in the crash. The accident has left the Lawanti community in mourning, renewing concerns over road safety on major highways in the region.

SAD NEWS: Last night, bandits attacked a private residence in Pindiga town, Akko LGA of Gombe State, killing Prince Yusuf Derdoski and his pregnant sister, and abducting two other siblings. The brutal incident has thrown the community into mourning.

Given the recurring security breaches in parts of Gombe State, how are security agencies reassessing intelligence gathering and rapid response mechanisms to protect vulnerable communities like Pindiga?

Seven Gombe Residents Die in Tragic Road Crash While Traveling to Wedding in Maiduguri

Seven residents of Lawanti community in Gombe State lost their lives in a fatal road accident on Saturday while traveling to a wedding in Maiduguri, Borno State. The tragedy affected multiple families, including community leaders such as the District Head of Jalingo, Bello Hassan Babangida, who lost his sister and niece. Gombe State Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya described the incident as “painful and devastating,” offering prayers for the bereaved families and calling for strength during this difficult time.

Northern Governors Condemn Maiduguri Mosque Suicide Bombing, Mourn Slain Kano Lawmakers

The Northern States Governors’ Forum has strongly condemned the suicide bombing that struck the Gomboru Market Mosque in Maiduguri, Borno State, describing the attack as barbaric, cowardly and a grave violation of religious sanctity. The incident occurred on Wednesday evening during Maghrib prayers, when a suspected suicide bomber infiltrated the mosque, killing five worshippers and injuring at least 35 others, turning a sacred moment of worship into tragedy.

In a statement issued by the Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, through his Director-General of Press Affairs, Ismaila Uba Misilli, the governors expressed deep sorrow over the attack and extended condolences to the government and people of Borno State, particularly Governor Babagana Zulum, as well as the families of the victims and those injured. The forum stressed that attacks on places of worship offend human conscience and are intended to instil fear, but vowed that such acts would only strengthen the region’s unity and resolve against terrorism and violent extremism.

The governors urged security agencies and authorities in Borno State not to be discouraged, noting that terrorism thrives on fear and division. They called for sustained and intensified efforts to eliminate terrorism and restore lasting peace, while also advocating enhanced security around places of worship and public spaces, especially during festive periods marked by large gatherings. The forum reaffirmed its solidarity with Borno State and pledged full support as security agencies work to prevent further attacks.

In addition, the Northern Governors’ Forum mourned the deaths of two serving members of the Kano State House of Assembly, Aminu Sa’ad Ungogo and Sarki Aliyu Daneji, describing their passing as a painful loss to Kano State and democratic governance. The governors extended condolences to the Kano State Government, the legislature, and the families of the deceased lawmakers, praying for eternal rest for the departed and strength for those they left behind.

19 Dead in Separate Trailer Crashes in Gombe and Plateau States

At least 19 people have died in separate road accidents in Gombe and Plateau states within 24 hours. In Gombe, nine people were killed when a trailer lost control and collided with a Sharon bus along Kaltungo-Cham road. In Plateau, 10 passengers died in a multi-vehicle crash involving two trailers and two mini buses on Jos-Bauchi Road. The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) attributed the accidents to excessive speed and reckless driving, urging motorists to exercise caution, especially during the festive period. Injured victims were taken to nearby hospitals, and investigations are ongoing.

#NigeriaNews #RoadAccidents #GombeState #PlateauState #TrailerCrash #RoadSafety #FRSC #JosBauchiRoad