By Our Political Reporter

In a show of solidarity and support, former Comptroller of Customs, Yusuf Garba Nadabo—popularly known as Uban Doman Jara—warmly welcomed members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) caucus to Gombe State ahead of the planned endorsement rally for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The event, which is expected to draw key party stakeholders from across the state and beyond, marks a significant step in reaffirming support for President Tinubu’s administration in the North-East.

As part of his commitment to the party and the endorsement movement, Nadabo, together with his family, friends, and well-wishers, donated 10,000 drinking water to the APC family in Gombe State. The gesture, described by many as timely and thoughtful, is aimed at supporting logistical needs during the highly anticipated political gathering.

Speaking during a brief ceremony held to receive the donation, party officials expressed appreciation for Nadabo’s continuous support and patriotic contributions to both the state and national development. Many described the former Comptroller as a grassroots mobilizer and an elder statesman whose influence continues to inspire younger generations.

Nadabo, who retired from active service with the Nigeria Customs Service after years of distinguished service, has remained a strong political figure in the state, known for his generosity and commitment to community development.

“We are proud of what President Tinubu is doing for Nigeria, and this endorsement is a way of showing that Gombe stands firmly behind him,” Nadabo said. “This donation is our little way of supporting the event and encouraging unity within our party.”

Preparations are already in top gear as the APC gears up for the state-wide endorsement event, which is expected to attract top dignitaries, party loyalists, and thousands of supporters.

Observers say the move will further strengthen the APC’s political presence in Gombe State, ahead of future political developments.

Ends

By Our Correspondent

In a solemn demonstration of solidarity and compassion, a high-powered delegation led by sports entrepreneur and Chief Executive Officer of Green White Green Sports Centre Limited, Hon. Ahmed Shuaibu Gara-Gombe, paid a condolence visit to the Kano State Government and families of the victims of a tragic road accident that claimed the lives of 22 young athletes.

The delegation, which included renowned figures such as Dr. Alex Mana and retired military officer Col. Abbas Mohammed, was received by the Director of the Kano State Sports Commission, Mr. Ibrahim Umar Fagge, and later by the Deputy Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Aminu Abdulsalam Gwarzo, at the Government House in Kano.

The athletes, who represented Kano State at the recent National Sports Festival, tagged “Gateway Games,” in Ogun State, lost their lives in a devastating auto crash on their way back from the event. The tragedy has sent shockwaves across Nigeria’s sports community, sparking grief and calls for lasting memorials in their honour.

Speaking during the visit, Hon. Gara-Gombe, a former Special Adviser to ex-Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso and a prominent figure in Nigerian sports development, expressed deep sorrow over the incident. He described the deceased as “national assets” whose contributions to grassroots sports would not be forgotten.

“As someone who has lived in Kano and served the state at different levels, I feel personally affected by this tragedy,” Gara-Gombe stated. “These young athletes gave their lives in the service of the state and the country. They deserve to be honoured eternally.”

He called on the Kano State Government to construct a mausoleum in Kano metropolis as a permanent memorial for the fallen athletes. He said such a structure would not only preserve their legacy but also serve as a reminder of the value of youth in nation-building.

In a further show of commitment, Hon. Gara-Gombe announced a personal donation of N2 million to support the mausoleum project, urging others within the sports and political community to contribute as well.

Responding on behalf of the state government, Deputy Governor Aminu Abdulsalam Gwarzo expressed appreciation for the visit and described it as a powerful gesture of empathy and unity from the people of Gombe State.

“We are grateful to Hon. Gara-Gombe and his team for standing with us in this difficult time,” Gwarzo said. “Your proposal to immortalize our heroes is noble, and the government will give it due consideration.”

The Deputy Governor also thanked the delegation for their thoughtful donation and assured them that the government remains committed to supporting the families of the victims.

The visit was concluded with prayers for the souls of the departed and for peace and progress in Kano State and Nigeria at large. The delegation later departed for their various destinations, having reaffirmed the enduring bond between Gombe and Kano States through this act of shared grief and solidarity.

By Our Correspondent

Alfred John Sympathises With Victims of Easter Procession Tragedy

Donates ₦300,000 each to the families of six individuals who lost their lives

Donates ₦200,000 each to 18 victims currently receiving medical treatment

Today, I sent a delegation led by His Excellency Hon. Charles Iliya, former Deputy Governor of Gombe State, to visit the families affected by the tragic incident that occurred during the Easter procession in Billiri. The grief in the community is palpable, and no words can truly ease the pain of losing loved ones in such a devastating manner. I extend my deepest sympathies to the bereaved families and all those impacted by this heartbreaking tragedy.

As a gesture of support, I have provided financial assistance to help ease the burden on those affected. I have donated ₦300,000 each to the families of the six individuals who lost their lives and ₦200,000 each to 18 victims who are currently receiving medical treatment. While no amount can replace the lives lost or erase the trauma endured, I hope this support provides some relief to the grieving families and the injured.

This intervention follows the visit of His Excellency, Governor Inuwa Yahaya, who demonstrated immense compassion by extending his condolences to the affected families. The Governor generously donated ₦2 million to each bereaved family and pledged to cover the medical expenses of those injured. His words of comfort and encouragement were deeply appreciated, as he lamented that this tragic event marks the third of such occurrences in recent times during religious celebrations. He called on security agencies and community leaders to reflect on the lessons from these incidents to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

Governor Yahaya reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to protecting the peace and security of all residents of Gombe State, regardless of religious or ethnic background. His leadership and swift intervention in moments of crisis reflect his unwavering commitment to justice and unity.

Your Excellency, your visit and support have been truly uplifting. Your empathy and dedication to the well-being of the people of Gombe State are deeply valued. Thank you for always standing by us in our most difficult times.

Victims React:
“We, the affected victims, sincerely express our gratitude to Hon. Alfred John Attajiri for his compassionate intervention and generous financial support during this challenging time. His kindness and dedication to our well-being have brought hope and relief to many of us. We deeply appreciate his efforts in standing with us and ensuring we receive the assistance needed to rebuild. Thank you for your unwavering support and commitment to humanity.”

Responding to them, HE Hon. Charles Iliya extended his heartfelt appreciation to His Excellency, the Governor of Gombe State, for his compassionate leadership and commitment to justice. The decision to release the affected youths following the unfortunate Easter procession tragedy in Billiri reflects empathy, understanding, and a dedication to peace. This action strengthens unity and reconciliation among our people and demonstrates that justice and fairness prevail in our great state.

As we mourn the loss of lives and extend our support to the injured, I urge the community to come together in solidarity. Let us remain vigilant in promoting safety, advocate for better road management, and ensure that incidents like this do not happen again. May the souls of the departed rest in peace, and may their families find the strength to move forward.

Members of the Delegation:

Rev. Father Joseph A. Shinga – Gombe State CAN Chairman

Hon. Solomon Siyako

Hon. Philemon Ezra – Deputy Chairman, Balanga Local Government

Eld. Tele Elsa – Former TCDA Chairman

Hon. Balas Mohamed Tal

Hon. Bikurob Hamma

Hon. Jackson Tero Kulkul