The Governor of Borno State, Professor Babagana Zulum, has officially banned the sale of alcohol in Maiduguri and surrounding areas, citing the role of security personnel in encouraging crime and antisocial behaviour.
Governor Zulum accused both current and former members of the military and other security agencies of influencing civilians toward criminal activities, including radicalism, prostitution, and other vices that contribute to the ongoing terrorism in the state.
He made these statements during the inauguration of a reconstituted task force committee mandated to shut down illegal hotels, brothels, and criminal hideouts across the region.
During his remarks, Zulum emphasized that no one—including serving or dismissed security personnel—would be above the law. He argued that enforcing accountability is crucial if Maiduguri and Borno State hope to overcome insurgency and rising crime rates.
Explaining the rationale behind the alcohol ban, the governor pointed to a surge in violence among rival groups, cult clashes, prostitution, drug abuse, and theft, which have led to a significant loss of lives and property.
The newly reconstituted committee includes representatives from the military, Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and the civilian joint task force. This multi-agency team is expected to collaborate in implementing the crackdown on criminal activities and enforcing the alcohol ban.
One of the committee co-chairs acknowledged the serious security challenges facing Maiduguri and laid out upcoming steps aimed at restoring peace and order in the state capital and its environs.
