From Abdulrazaq Mungadi, Gombe
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has described the escalating violence and recurring attacks in Plateau State as an “aberration,” calling for urgent prayers and collective efforts towards national peace and security.
Akpabio made the remarks during a goodwill message at the wedding reception of the daughter of former Gombe State Governor and current Senator representing Gombe North, Dr Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo, held on Saturday in Gombe.
According to him, “Thirty-seven people died yesterday, and sixteen others lost their lives while we were there in Jos. Let us pray that peace will come to the Northeast, the Middle Belt, the Northwest, North Central, and the whole nation.”
His comments come amid renewed violence in Plateau State, which continues to suffer from repeated cycles of deadly attacks targeting rural communities.
While addressing dignitaries at the high-profile event, which attracted over 70 senators, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, the Governors of Bauchi and Oyo States, Bala Mohammed and Seyi Makinde, as well as Bukola Saraki and Adams Oshiomhole, among others from across the federation, Akpabio praised Gombe State as a model of stability.
“Gombe is a peaceful state. We have over 70 senators here today to celebrate with our children. I want to commend the Governor of Gombe State for following in the footsteps of his predecessors in developing the state,” he stated, while extending warm wishes to the newlywed couple, praying for their union to be abundantly blessed.
Akpabio further lauded Senator Dankwambo, describing him as a “unifier” within the National Assembly and a bridge-builder committed to national cohesion.
In his remarks, Speaker Abbas urged politicians to move away from divisive politics, saying Nigeria can only progress if leaders put the country first. “We must see ourselves as Nigerians before anything else. It is time to end bitter politics and build the nation together,” he said.
In his welcome remarks, the Gombe State Governor, Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya, thanked the Senate President, Speaker, and other dignitaries who travelled from across the country, and also stressed the need to promote unity beyond political party lines. Meanwhile, Dankwambo thanked God for making the day a success and expressed appreciation to the Senate President, the Speaker, Governor Yahaya, and all other guests for their support.
