Vice President Kashim Shettima paid a visit to Maiduguri, the Borno state capital on Monday, to convey the condolences of the president to the people. The Vice President also made a stop at the State Specialist Hospital, Maiduguri, where he met with victims still receiving treatment and their families.
Quoting the late Dele Giwa “One life lost in cold blood is as gruesome as millions lost in cold blood,” Shettima described the incident as pathetic.
Shortly after the visit, the Vice President spoke with newsmen, where he confirmed the death toll from the three blasts have almost doubled from the earlier reported figure of 18 to 32.
“It was a very pathetic scene. Our hearts go out to the victims. So far, we have recorded 32 deaths; 42 of those injured were brought in from Gwoza and about 14 have been discharged, while about 26 are currently receiving attention.
“I want to use this forum to most sincerely register our profound gratitude to the Borno State government, the National Emergency Management Agency, the State Emergency Management Agency and ICRC for rising to the challenges of the times and giving their best in terms of support.”
The Vice President made a personal donation to the victims and assured them that the heart of the president is with them,
“The heart of President Bola Tinubu is with the victims and he specifically instructed us to come and offer our condolences and commiserations to the victims of this incident.
“We are here with the Director General of NEMA, with the Minister of Agriculture, with the Minister of Transportation and, of course, the Chief Whip of the Senate, a son of the soil from Gwoza, who was here since yesterday (Sunday), and the Acting Governor. They have been working round the clock to provide succor and support to the victims,” the VP said.
