Niger State government has debunked media reports that the convoy of Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago was involved in the auto crash that claimed five lives.
Media reports, other than those by LEADERSHIP, linked the accident, which occurred at Gidan Magoro on the Minna–Bida Road, to the governor’s convoy.
Reacting to the reports, the state commissioner for Information and Orientation, Hon. Obed Nuhu Nana, expressed sadness over the tragic road accident, he, however, clarified that the vehicles involved were not part of the governor’s convoy.
Nana said, “In the interest of accurate public information, the government wishes to clarify reports in various news outlets linking the incident to the convoy of the governor of Niger State, Farmer Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago.
“Contrary to these reports, the driver involved in the incident is a Government House staff member who was returning from a trip with other staff members, who are currently receiving treatment. The vehicle was not on a convoy assignment with the governor.”
He said preliminary information available to the government indicated that the driver had acted recklessly, resulting in the unfortunate incident. He added that the government regretted the circumstances that led to the loss of lives and reiterated that road safety must never be taken for granted.
He said that while the government recognised the public concern surrounding the incident, it urged media organisations and members of the public to verify information and exercise responsibility in their reporting, particularly when attributing incidents to the governor or the government.
He added that the government remained committed to the welfare and safety of residents and called on all motorists to observe traffic regulations, exercise caution and demonstrate responsibility on the roads to prevent avoidable tragedies.