Tragedy struck the Lubo community in the Yamaltu-Deba local government area of Gombe State on Monday morning, as Reverend Bala Galadima, a respected Christian clergyman and the presiding pastor at the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) worship center, was brutally murdered by suspected armed robbers.

Reports indicate that the attack took place in the early hours of Monday at Reverend Galadima’s residence, where the assailants, armed and dangerous, broke in and fatally shot him before fleeing the scene. The community and beyond have been rocked by the horrific nature of this crime, which has caused fear and shock.

In response to this heinous act, Gombe State Governor Inuwa Yahaya swiftly condemned the murder, describing it as an egregious affront to the long-standing peace and security that the region has historically enjoyed. In a statement released by his media aide, Isma’ila Uba Misilli, the governor expressed his profound sorrow and outrage over the killing, emphasizing the need for security agencies to mobilize their efforts to track down and apprehend the perpetrators.

“Governor Inuwa Yahaya strongly condemned the reprehensible act, characterizing it as an assault on the social fabric of our society,” the statement read. He urged that such incidents must not be allowed to disrupt the fragile peace and harmonious coexistence that Gombe State has fostered over the years.

The governor extended heartfelt condolences to Reverend Galadima’s grieving family, the entire ECWA Church congregation, and the broader Christian community in Gombe, offering prayers for the eternal repose of the deceased and for strength to those mourning this tragic loss. The incident has raised urgent concerns regarding security in the area, prompting calls for enhanced protective measures to prevent such violence from recurring.