We bring you warm greetings at this trying moment of the Tangale nation.
We have been informed that the Banganje community through the Banganje Community Development Association (BCDA) has affirmed the position of the Tangale Community Development Association (TCDA) calling for the suspension of celebrations and merriment until after 14 days of mourning in Tangale land. The community has also called on its people to participate in the three days of prayer and fasting declared for all Tangale sons and daughters at home and in diaspora, to seek the face of God for Intervention in our affairs.
We understand that the position of the community was reached after a wide consultation with Banganje sons and daughters at home and in diaspora.
This is a commendable action, we praise the courage and sacrifices of the Banganje community, and their willingness to stand with the rest of the Tangale people at this trying moment.
Already, burials of the victims have commenced; we therefore call on everyone in Tangale land to be sensitive and join affected families in mourning for their loved ones, especially at this moment.
We call on other groups in Tangale land to take a similar position to that of Banganje community by suspending celebration-related activities, except emergencies.
The Easter tragedy was an unfortunate incident that requires a sober reaction in Tangale land. We emphasize that no one should take the law into their hands, even in the face of provocation brought to our doorstep.
We call on Gombe state government to be sensitive to the ongoing mourning period in Tangale land, as well as prayer and fasting days. Therefore, do not enforce the turbaning of Mai Banganje on us at this time.
We emphasize, we are currently mourning the loss of our loved ones; we do not want any activity at this moment, especially by Malam Danladi Maishanu, who himself is not coronated, nor recognized by the Tangale people as Mai Tangle. We urge the Billiri Local Government Council to follow up on this.
Our sincere appreciation goes to groups and individuals who have dedicated their resources (finances, time and energy) towards supporting the victims and praying for them.
The Tangale Community Overseas (TCO), and indeed all well meaning Tangale sons and daughters sympathize with the families directly affected by the unfortunate incident. It is our earnest prayer that such an affliction will not rise again.
We call on all Tangale sons and daughters to stand together and key into the prayer and fasting, as well as the 14 days earmarked for the mourning of the loss ones: whatever affects one of us, affect us all. Together we stand, together we shall succeed.
God bless you all.
Long live the Tangale people. Long live the Tangale nation.
SIGNED
Rev. Bitrus B. Cobongs, PhD
President, TCO
