Southern Senators, on Monday, asked the Federal Government to intensity its efforts in combating terrorism in the country and guarantee the safety of the lives of Nigerians.

The senators made the call as they reacted to Saturday’s suicide bomb attacks in Gwoza, Borno State, which claimed the lives of at least 18 people and left many others wounded.

They spoke through the Nigerian Southern Senators Forum, in a statement jointly signed by the Chairman, Sen. Mukhail Adetokunbo Abiru; the Secretary-General, Sen. Barinada Mpigi; and the Publicity Secretary, Sen. Asuquo Ekpenyong.

The group, which strongly condemned the attacks, also praise President Bola Tinubu for his immediate response to the incident and the resolve of his administration to bring the perpetrators to book.

The forum stated “We are deeply shocked and saddened by the barbaric attack and our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families, and the entire community affected by this senseless act of violence.

“These heinous acts of terrorism are a stark reminder of the persistent security challenges facing our nation. The despicable act once again highlights the urgent need for a collective, collaborative and robust response to terrorism in our country. We call upon the federal government and all security agencies to intensify their efforts in combating terrorism and ensuring the safety and security of all Nigerians. Those responsible for this atrocity must be swiftly brought to justice.

“We commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s swift condemnation of the attacks and the resolve of his administration to bring the perpetrators to book, and the reassurance to continue to secure the lives and properties of citizens.

“The Southern Senators Forum extends its deepest condolences to the families who lost loved ones and wishes a speedy recovery to those injured. We remain steadfast in our commitment to work with all stakeholders to achieve lasting peace and security across Nigeria.

“The Forum stands in solidarity with the Northern Senators Forum, and with the government and people of Borno State in this time of grief.

“We commend the resilience and bravery of the people and the sacrifice of our security forces who continue to fight against these evil forces to protect our country.  We call on all Nigerians to remain vigilant and support our security agencies in their efforts to protect our nation.

“The Forum will continue to support measures by the Senate to provide greater support, better equipment, and enhanced welfare for these gallant men and women to boost their morale and effectiveness in the fight against terrorism.”

Their northern counterparts also condemned the attacks on Monday, saying that they shared in the pain of the people of Gwoza.

The Chairman of the Northern Senators Forum, Sen, Abdulaziz Yar’adua, reacting on behalf of the group, stated, “We stand united in condemning the cowardly deeds of those who seek to spread fear and chaos among our peaceful communities.

“The loss of innocent lives and the suffering inflicted upon families in Gwoza have deeply wounded us all. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families who have been bereaved and the individuals fighting for their lives in the aftermath of this senseless tragedy.”