Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, on Monday visited Konduga Local Government Area to sympathise with victims of the recent bomb blast at the local fish market, which resulted in multiple casualties, destruction, and trauma.
Addressing journalists after meeting with residents and community leaders, Governor Zulum expressed his heartfelt condolences to those injured and displaced by the attack.
“I am here to personally commiserate with you. Though a delegation was sent earlier, I felt it was important to come myself,” the Governor stated.
Zulum stressed that his visit was not only to offer support but also to take action against the root causes of insecurity in the area. He attributed the bombing to illegal activities around the market, particularly the sale of illicit substances such as Indian hemp.
“We had already directed those operating illegally around the blast site to vacate. Unfortunately, our warnings were ignored. People continued selling drugs and committing all sorts of atrocities in the area,” he lamented.
The Governor revealed that the state government had established a high-powered committee to identify and dismantle drug centres operating across Borno State. He warned that any structure found to be harbouring such illegal activities would be demolished, and offenders prosecuted.
“The government will not fold its arms while criminals endanger lives. All joints where Indian hemp and other illegal drugs are sold will be dismantled, and perpetrators will be dealt with according to the law,” Zulum declared.
Also Read: Zulum Donates ₦5m, Grants Scholarships to Families of Fallen CJTF Members
He further disclosed that the Borno State House of Assembly was set to review and strengthen the existing sanitation law on Tuesday, to give security operatives enhanced powers.
The proposed amendment will empower law enforcement officers to arrest offenders without a warrant, and the revised law will be enforced across all 27 local government areas in the state.
“We must act swiftly to prevent further occurrences. The safety and stability of our communities remain our top priority,” he added.
Governor Zulum also raised concern that some drug peddlers previously expelled from Maiduguri Metropolitan Council had migrated to rural communities like Konduga, where they continued to operate unchecked.
He gave assurances that the updated legal framework would be fully implemented across the state to eradicate criminal elements and ensure lasting peace in Borno.
