Vice President Kashim Shettima on Thursday expressed deep sorrow over the tragic road accident in Maiduguri, Borno State, which claimed the lives of several young graduates from Borno State University and left many others injured.
In a condolence message issued by his spokesperson, Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima lamented the loss of promising lives, describing the incident as an unimaginable tragedy.
“The loss of these bright, young lives is not just a loss for their families but a loss for Borno State and our nation,” Shettima said.
“These graduates embodied hope, promise, and aspirations of a brighter future. Their untimely departure leaves an irreplaceable void.”
The Vice President assured the grieving families of the government’s full support, pledging that such tragedies will not be ignored.
“We stand with you during this difficult time. The government will extend all possible support to ease your burden and honour the memory of these exceptional young individuals,” Shettima said.
He also prayed for the repose of the departed souls and strength for their families to bear the loss, emphasizing that President Bola Tinubu’s administration is committed to addressing issues that lead to such incidents.
Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum also conveyed his condolences to the affected families and the Borno State University community.
“I extend my deepest sympathies to families of the affected students, the management, staff, and students of Borno State University over this unfortunate incident,” Zulum stated.
The governor revealed that the accident involved a students’ bus and a trailer along the Maiduguri-Damaturu road, as the students were returning after completing their examinations.
To prevent similar occurrences, Zulum has directed the Ministry of Works to expedite the completion of the Maiduguri Trailer Park project.
He also announced plans to ban trailers and heavy vehicles from accessing the city center once the park is operational.
“This is a move aimed at reducing intra-city road accidents within the metropolis,” the governor emphasized.
The tragedy has sparked widespread grief, with many calling for improved road safety measures to prevent further loss of life.