Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum, has announced a ban on the sale of alcoholic beverages, accusing both current and former military and security personnel of fueling criminal activities and social vices in Maiduguri and surrounding areas.
In a statement reported by Channels TV, Governor Zulum explained that ex- and current members of the Nigerian security forces have played a significant role in encouraging criminal behavior, radicalism, prostitution, and other illicit activities. He added that this has exacerbated the threat of terrorism in the state.
The governor made these remarks on Tuesday during the launch of a reconstituted committee aimed at revoking illegal hotels, brothels, shanties, and criminal hideouts, as well as curbing antisocial vices. The event took place at the government house in Maiduguri.
“I am pleased to see military, police, and other security officers here today because many of these activities have been perpetrated by former and current military officers, security personnel, and even civilians,” Zulum said. “There should be no sacred cows if we are to rid Maiduguri and the entire state of insurgency, terrorism, and other criminal activities.”
The governor explained that the ban on alcohol sales is a response to the increasing clashes between rival groups, cultism, drug abuse, prostitution, theft, and other criminal acts that have led to significant loss of life and property.
While the ban on alcohol and the demolition of properties linked to criminal activities are aimed at improving security, it remains to be seen how these measures will affect the state’s internal revenue, especially amid ongoing debates over a tax reform bill in the National Assembly that Governor Zulum and other state leaders are championing.
