We won’t abandon you, Tinubu assures families of slain security

From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja

President Bola Tinubu has assured families of 11 security officers killed in a recent bandit attack in Shanga Local Government Area of Kebbi State that the Federal Government will not abandon them.

Tinubu, who was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, stressed his commitment to the welfare of armed forces personnel and their families during the condolence visit to Governor Nasir Idris in Birnin Kebbi .

“We won’t abandon you,” he emphasised, underscoring that their gallantry would not go in vain.

The visit mourned multiple tragedies: the slain officers, destruction in Shanga communities and the death of Kebbi State House of Assembly Speaker Alhaji Muhammad Usman Zuru in Cairo, Egypt, on April 7.

“We are here in Kebbi, your Excellency, at the behest of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to commiserate with you, and to register our profound condolences and empathy over the sad developments in your state, in the past couple of days,” he said.

“The demise of the Speaker of the Kebbi State House of Assembly, the late Hon. Muhammed Usman Zuru, the destruction of our communities in Shanga Local Government Area and, of course, the loss of our eleven gallant officers. We are here to condole with you, the security establishment in Kebbi State and the government and people of Kebbi. Our hearts are with you.”

Tinubu disclosed President Tinubu’s directives for immediate relief. “The President also instructed me to come with the Director General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to ensure that adequate measures are put in place to give succour and support to the displaced communities. We are going to support you. We appreciate you, we adore you, we respect you, and we will take whatever measures that are necessary for you to do your duties as you ought to do.”

Governor Idris in his response noted improvements in security responses despite challenges. He revealed the state donated N60 million to the officers’ families and resettled displaced communities, with measures to prevent recurrence. The governor praised federal support via the high-powered delegation, which included NEMA DG Zubaida Umar, Deputy Chief of Staff Senator Ibrahim Hassan Hadejia, and others.

Emir of Zuru, Alhaji Sanusi Mikailu Sami, joined in expressing gratitude and praying for peace.