Governor Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State toured several damaged facilities on Friday to assess the extent of destruction caused by a violent protest in Gombe metropolis.
Expressing deep concern, Yahaya noted the significant damage inflicted on both public and private property, assuring the public of his administration’s commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the state.
“I have personally assessed the extensive damage caused by the violent protest. The destruction is enormous, affecting not only public facilities but also businesses,” Yahaya lamented.
He stressed the importance of preserving peace in Gombe, a state known for its stability, and warned against actions that threaten this peace. “Gombe is known for its peace, and we must preserve it. We cannot allow actions that threaten our stability. While we acknowledge the challenges and hardships, resorting to violence and destruction is not the solution.”
Governor Yahaya clarified that while his administration supports the right to peaceful protest, the events of the previous day crossed the line of democratic principles and legal boundaries. He assured that the government and police would support peaceful demonstrations, provided they adhere to established rules.
“What we cannot allow is the breakdown of law and order,” he stated, urging residents to resume their economic and social activities with the assurance of safety and security.
Yahaya also commended the swift response and professionalism of security agencies in containing the situation, which he credited with preventing further chaos and restoring order.
The locations visited by the Governor included the Gombe State Bureau of Public Service Reforms, the famous Bima Lodge, Kumbiya-Kumbiya Primary Healthcare Centre, Blue Jay Motor Park where six Sienna vehicles were destroyed, and Gombe Main Market, where he consoled business owners for their losses.
Governor Yahaya directed the Ministry of Works, Transport, and Housing, along with the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the damages with the aim of providing support.
