• El-Rufai condemns attack, sues for calm
From Sola Ojo, Kaduna
NO fewer than four persons were shot dead while eight others were critically injured in an attack by a lone gunman at Nindem village of Godogodo District, Jemaa Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
The area, which had earlier in the year suffered serious security threat has since been peaceful until this latest attack Friday night.
But, Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai in a statement condemned the attack and called for calm just as he vowed to bring the perpetrator to justice.
Commander of Operation Safe Haven in the area, Colonel Idong Ekpeyong, who stated this while addressing newsmen on Saturday in Kafanchan said, the group of people were observing Christmas carol at a village square when their assailant launched the bloody attack killing four persons instantly.
According to the Colonel, troops of the Operation Safe Haven responded to a distress call over the attack and conducted a rapid operation in suspected locations and apprehended a number of people who are still under examination.
He however confirmed that, the victims and survivors were conveyed by the troops to the Sir Patrick Ibrahim Yakowa Hospital, Kafanchan where the injured were receiving medical attention.
Colonel Ekpyeyong said investigation into the event was ongoing in collaboration with the Nigeria Police, Kaduna.
He however said additional enforcement in the area has been effected to prevent likelihood of breakdown of law and order.
The governor in a statement by his Senior Special Assistant (Media and Publicity), Samuel Aruwan said, security forces have informed the Kaduna State Government that there was an attack in Nimdem village on the night of Friday, 22nd December 2017. The government was further briefed, that arrests have been made and investigation is ongoing.
“The government condemns this incident, and calls on all stakeholders to help uphold peace by working to avoid escalation and by supporting the security forces.
“Government commiserates with the families of the victims in this sad moment. The grief and pain these acts of violence leave in their wake can be devastating. It is important that all communities stand firm against any threat to peace, and reject those who might want to reprise the terrible events of December 2016.
“Government appeals for calm as security forces take action to restore peace and stability. Nobody should be allowed to truncate the right of citizens to live in peace and enjoy safety, or thwart their legitimate expectations of celebrating Christmas and the New Year in peace”.