Governor Bello Matawalle has cancelled June 12 Democracy Day celebration, citing insecurity in the state.

The Commissioner for Information, Ibrahim Dosara, announced the cancellation of the occasion on Saturday.

”Following the recent attacks on some communities by some recalcitrant heartless hoodlums, leading to the killings of several innocent citizens of our dear state, Matawalle has directed the cancellation of the June 12, Democracy Day celebration,” said Mr Dosara in a statement in Gusau.

Mr Dosara, who is also the chairman of the publicity sub-committee on the second anniversary of Mr Matawalle’s administration, added, “The state government is saddened and deeply shocked by the callous behaviours of those behind these attacks.”

He noted that as part of the efforts to protect the citizens and its concern over the recent violent attacks on Bungudu, Maru, and Zurmi local government areas, the government deemed it necessary to suspend all the activities arranged up for June 12 commemoration until further notice.

“The attacks which took place at this time when we are celebrating our two years in office, showcasing our efforts in providing the people with dividends of democracy, has deeply touched the governor and his government.

“The government, under the leadership of Matawalle, is deeply saddened by the calamity and condemns in the strongest terms, these acts of madness by these senseless killers,” he said.

Mr Dosara added, “The government is, therefore, appealing to the good people of the state to pray for the repose of the departed souls and continue to be law-abiding.

“Citizens of the state should remain calm and gentle, as well as go about their normal businesses. Security agents have been mobilised to the affected communities and directed to deal ruthlessly with anyone found disrupting the peace of our people.”

According to the commissioner, the government rejoiced with Zamfara people “on this historic day,” set aside by President Muhammadu Buhari’s regime as Democracy Day, in honour of the late MKO Abiola.

(NAN)