FG condemns killing of Nigerian pilgrims in Burkina Faso

The Federal Government has condemned the gruesome killings of some Nigerians in Eastern Burkina Faso travelling to Senegal on pilgrimage.

15 Nigerian pilgrims on their way to Senegal were killed when gunmen in Burkina Faso attacked the buses transporting them.

Reacting in a statement signed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, spokesperson Francisca Omayuli on Tuesday expressed sadness and said the ministry is engaging with the government of Burkina Faso to ensure a thorough investigation into the incident.

The statement reads: “The Federal Government of Nigeria received with grave concern, disturbing reports of the gruesome killing of some Nigerian travellers by yet-to-be-identified gunmen on 1st February 2023 between Kantchari and Fada N’gourma in Eastern Burkina Faso.

“The Nigerians who belonged to the Tijjaniya Sect were said to be travelling to Senegal on a periodic pilgrimage when the tragic incident occurred.

“The Nigerian Government is deeply dismayed by this unfortunate development and is engaging with the Burkinabe authorities through the Nigerian Mission in Ouagadougou to ensure a thorough investigation of the incident, with a view to bringing the culprits to book.

“The Federal Government of Nigeria condoles with the families of the affected persons and enjoins Nigerians to remain calm while investigation is ongoing.

“May the souls of the departed rest in peace.”