JUST IN: Gunmen kill 16 travellers on Abuja-Kaduna highway

The Guardian learnt that the 16, from Dambatta local government, were conveyed in a private vehicle and met their untimely death on the Abuja-Kaduna high way.

Governor Abdullah Umar Ganduje while reacting to the killing expressed shock at the gruesome murder of the business tycoon.

In a condolence message signed by Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Abba Anwar, Ganduje expressed devastation on the tragic development.

"We were shocked with the bad news of the death of 16 Dambatta indigenes on Abuja-Kaduna highway, who were travelling from Abuja to Kano, as a result of an attack from unidentified gunmen.

The news is devastating and frustrating. We commiserate with the families of the deceased, the people of Dambatta local government, and the people of Kano state.

"May Allah accept their martyrdom and may He punish all the perpetrators of this heinous act. There is nothing more shocking than this. We urge people to pray fervently for the reposed souls. And we pray that may Allah give their families the fortitude to bear the great loss.ÔÇØ

"On behalf of the government and people of Kano state, I am condoling with the families of the deceased and the people of Dambatta local government, over this tragedy. May Allah forgive all their wrongdoings and reward their good deeds,ÔÇØ he prayed.