Niger Governor Sympathises with Victims of Bandits’ Attacks

Laleye Dipo in Minna

As the nation marked Democracy Day yesterday, Niger State Governor, Alhaji Mohammed Umar Bago, has sympathised  with victims of bandits’ attacks in parts of the state.

In recent weeks, scores of people have been murdered with many others kidnapped and injured by terrorists who invaded Shiroro, Munya, Rafi Paikoro and Mariga local government areas.

Bago, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, regretted the resurgence of insecurity in parts of the state, just as he assured that his administration and that at the federal level would find quick solution to the problem.

The governor prayed for the repose of the souls of those killed, quick recovery for those injured and safe return of abductees

Bago, assured the people of his resolve to have a secured state, pointing out that the impact of his interface with the Service Chiefs would soon be felt by all and sundry.

The governor told the people that the time had come for things to be done differently in the state and at the national level in order to bring about the desired results in the country.

He promised to give positive leadership that will improve the growth of the state

“It is time for the leadership at all levels to depart from the usual rhetorics and seek pragmatic solutions to the challenges of governance in order not to destroy our hard-earned democracy,” he stated adding that, “under my watch, Niger state will be great and lives of its citizens will be better.”

Meanwhile the governor has approved the payment of the fines imposed on 80 inmates granted prerogative of mercy by the past government to enable them regain their freedoms.

The Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Abubakar Usman, in a statement made available to newsmen in Minna, appealed to the inmates to make use of their freedom by engaging in useful ventures and shun any act that could lead them back to correctional facility.

Usman, also implored the inmates to be law-abiding citizens, and engage in legitimate ventures by taking advantage of various empowerment schemes available in the state.