Shettima Visits Kebbi, Condoles Over Killings, Speaker’s Death

Vice President Kashim Shettima on Tuesday paid a condolence visit to Kebbi State following recent killings in parts of the state and the death of the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Alhaji Muhammad Usman-Zuru.

Shettima, who visited the Government House in Birnin Kebbi, conveyed the sympathy of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to Governor Nasir Idris, families of slain security personnel, and the people of the state.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the late Speaker died on April 6 in a hospital in Cairo, Egypt, after a prolonged illness.

Speaking during the visit, the vice president said he was in the state at the instance of the president to commiserate with the government and people of Kebbi over the tragic incidents.

“We are here at the behest of President Bola Tinubu to express our profound condolences to the families of the gallant soldiers who paid the supreme price in the line of duty, as well as over the death of the Speaker.

“The attacks on communities in Shanga Local Government Area and the loss of our gallant soldiers in Giron Masa are deeply painful. We are here to condole with you, the people of Kebbi, and the security agencies in the state. Our hearts are with you,” he said.

Shettima added that the Federal Government delegation included the Director-General of the National Emergency Management Agency, Zubaida Umar, to ensure adequate support for communities displaced by the attacks.

He prayed for the repose of the souls of the deceased and for strength for their families and the state government to bear the losses.

The vice president also commended the Kebbi State Government for its efforts in education, infrastructure and inclusive governance, noting that the state remained dear to the Federal Government.

Responding, Governor Idris thanked President Tinubu for the condolence visit, describing it as a strong demonstration of concern and solidarity with the people of the state.

“We are grateful for this visit. It shows that Mr President shares our grief and stands with us at this difficult time,” he said.

The governor disclosed that about 11 persons, including security personnel, were killed in an ambush while responding to a distress call in Shanga Local Government Area.

He, however, commended security agencies for their prompt response to distress situations across the state.

On the death of the Speaker, Idris said the state government ensured he received adequate medical attention but ultimately submitted to the will of Allah.

He further revealed that the state government donated N100 million to support persons displaced by banditry and N60 million to families of fallen security personnel.

Also speaking, the Emir of Zuru, Alhaji Sanusi Mika’ilu, commended the governor for his sustained support to victims’ families and affected communities.

NAN reports that the vice president was accompanied on the visit by Deputy Chief of Staff to the Vice President, Sen. Ibrahim Hassan, Special Adviser on General Duties, Dr Aliyu Umar-Modibbo, and other dignitaries.