Shettima Mourns Borno Terror Attack Victims, Condemns Terrorism

Shettima Mourns Victims of Maiduguri Explosions, Condemns Violence
Updated March 17, 2026

Vice President Kashim Shettima has expressed deep sorrow over the deaths of 25 people killed in multiple explosions across Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State.

Speaking on Tuesday at the closing of the Annual Ramadan Tafsir held at the State House Mosque in Abuja, the Vice President prayed for the victims, asking Allah to grant them eternal rest and comfort their grieving families.

In a statement issued by his media aide, Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima condemned the attack and stressed that no religion supports the killing of innocent people.

“No religion sanctions the killing of the innocent,” the Vice President said, emphasising that the sanctity of human life remains a fundamental principle shared by all major faiths.

He also prayed for an end to terrorism, urging that those responsible either find guidance or be removed from acts of violence.

Call for Prayers and Reflection

Shettima called on Nigerians to continue praying for the nation, asking for divine guidance, wisdom, and strength for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his administration.

Reflecting on the significance of Ramadan, the Vice President noted that the holy month serves as a reminder of humility, accountability, and the transient nature of power.

“In the presence of Allah, the distance between the mighty and the unknown vanishes. What remains is character and accountability,” he said.

Lessons from Ramadan

He urged Muslims to carry the lessons of Ramadan beyond the fasting period, stressing the importance of discipline, compassion, and integrity in daily life.

According to him, true worship must be reflected in service to others, adding that leadership should be guided by conscience, restraint, and a sense of responsibility.

Shettima also encouraged Nigerians to avoid returning to negative habits such as bitterness, divisive speech, and indifference after the holy month.

Call for Responsible Leadership

The Vice President emphasised the need for leaders at all levels to recognise that influence is a responsibility, not a privilege.

He also paid tribute to the Chief Imam of the State House Mosque, Sheikh Abdulwaheed Suleiman Abubakar, for his role in leading the Tafsir sessions.

The cleric, in his remarks, prayed for lasting peace, national development, and the success of government policies, urging leaders to carry out their duties with sincerity and the fear of God.