06/04/2025
STATEMENT BY PROF. NENTAWE YILWATDA, HONOURABLE MINISTER OF HUMANITARIAN AFFAIRS AND POVERTY REDUCTION, TO THE PEOPLE OF BOKKOS LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA. 6TH APRIL 2025.
It is with a deeply grieving heart that I send this message of condolence and solidarity to you during this dark and painful time. Words are not enough to describe the sorrow I feel upon hearing of the brutal attacks that claimed the lives of many of our loved ones, left many others injured, and destroyed homes and means of livelihood.
As your son and as your servant in government, I carry this grief with you. There is no greater pain than the loss of family, neighbours, and entire communities to violence. I mourn with every father, mother, child, and elder whose heart is heavy with loss today.
We have a saying in Bokkos:
“Gwot na gwot wum, a kɔ’ɛt tsuhwɔ.”
“When fire burns the hut of one, the entire village must bring water.”
That is why, even in your moment of mourning, you will not be alone. A delegation from my office has come not just with words but with urgent support—food items, building materials, and other essential relief. We know that no material item can replace what has been lost, but we hope it can bring some comfort as you begin to rebuild your lives.
This tragedy touches me personally. As someone who knows this land and its people, I know your strength. I know your courage. I know that no matter how dark the night, the people of Bokkos will rise with the sun.
In this moment of sorrow, may God comfort you. May He heal your wounds. May the souls of the departed have peace with the angels, and may God give rest to every broken heart.
We will stand with you until we build a brighter and safer future.
Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda
Honourable Minister,
Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction.
