BY MUSA IDRIS UMAR, MAY 08, 2025 | 09:43 AM
Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, has vowed to take decisive action against the growing threat of political thuggery and related social vices, describing them as major contributors to public disorder in the state.
'In addition to this, political thuggery must be curtailed; it constitutes a lot of public disturbances. Enough now, we must take decisive action,' the governor declared on Tuesday while inaugurating a special committee to address the spike in criminal and anti-social behaviour in Maiduguri, the state capital.
The committee, comprising security agencies, traditional leaders, and government officials, has been charged with tackling issues such as drug abuse, gangsterism, youth restiveness, prostitution, and armed robbery — all of which Zulum said are increasingly threatening the safety of residents and the stability of Borno.
'It is sad to note that a few days ago, some individuals were killed behind the UMTH. Prostitution and gangsterism have now become the order of the day. Many places in Maiduguri are littered with hoodlums,' he lamented.
The governor warned that if political thuggery and related crimes are not swiftly contained, they could escalate into broader insecurity, possibly fueling a resurgence of insurgency in the state.
He emphasised the need for community involvement and the strict enforcement of law and order.
The newly inaugurated committee will engage in community sensitisation, surveillance, and prosecution of offenders. It will also work closely with security agencies to dismantle criminal networks across the state.
Speaking on behalf of the committee, its chairperson and Borno State Attorney General, Barrister Hauwa Abubakar, assured the governor of their readiness to act decisively.
'We understand the urgency of this mandate and will work tirelessly to meet the expectations of the government and the people,' she said.