Hussaini Kafi in Kano
Days after Africa Health Report (AHR) revealed the Emir of Zazzau’s lament over the Plateau State Government’s silence, a high-powered delegation from the state on Monday visited the Zazzau Emirate in Kaduna over the recent killings of wedding-bound travellers in Mangu Local Government Area.
AHR had on Saturday published a special report highlighting the Emir of Zazzau, Malam Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli’s concern that no official delegation had visited the Emirate to commiserate with the victims’ families.
At least 13 travellers from Basawa in Zaria were killed en route to a wedding in Pau on June 20, while 11 others sustained injuries.
Leading the delegation, the Emir of Wase, Alhaji Sambo Mohammed, apologized for the delay, explaining it was due to security advice. “It was only now that we received the security nod to embark on the condolence visit,” he said, noting that 22 suspects had been arrested and that Plateau State was committed to ensuring justice.
“The government is deeply pained by this tragedy and will do everything within its powers to prevent a recurrence,” he added.
In response, Emir Bamalli accepted the apology and urged continuous peace-building efforts between Kaduna and Plateau. “We must not allow the actions of a few individuals to sever the historical bonds between our people,” he said.
Community leader Malam Yakubu Yusuf appealed for compensation, stressing many victims were family breadwinners.
The delegation included top government officials, traditional rulers, and elder statesmen.
