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By Oscar Okhifo, Abuja
As a mark of respect for victims of the recent devastating flood that ravaged some communities in Mokwa town which claimed hundreds of lives, displaced thousands and caused excessive destruction of houses and farmlands, the Niger State Governor, Umar Bago has called for a low keyed festivities.
Consequently, all elaborate Sallah (Hawan Bariki and Durbar) celebrations across all the eight Emirate Councils that make up Niger state have been cancelled.
A statement from the office of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Alhaji Abubakar Usman reads, “Governor Umaru Bago has directed a low key Eid-el Kabir sallah celebrations, suspension of Hawan Bariki, Durbar and other elaborate Sallah activities across all Emirates in the State.
“The decision to cancel all celebrations is as a mark of respect for the victims of the tragic incident that befell the state and to allow for a period of mourning, prayers and reflections”.
The Mokwa flood disaster, described as one of the worst in decades, according to the SSG has left several families bereaved, houses and sources of livelihood destroyed.
Governor Bago therefore wants citizens to use the occasion to pray for the repose of the departed souls and engage in acts of charity for family members of the affected communities.
The Mokwa flood disaster which led to the deaths of close to 200 people, has generated unprecedented humanitarian crisis requiring the support and sympathy of all Nigerians.