Gov Zulum bans alcohol sales in Borno, blames security forces for rising crime

Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State has banned the sale and consumption of alcohol in Maiduguri and surrounding areas, blaming current and former security operatives for fueling criminality and antisocial behavior in the state.

Speaking on Tuesday during the inauguration of a newly reconstituted committee tasked with revoking illegal hotels, brothels, and criminal hideouts, Zulum accused some members of the armed forces and other security agencies of promoting radicalism, prostitution, and vices that contribute to terrorism threats.

“I’m glad to have the presence of military and police officers here because, unfortunately, some of these crimes are perpetrated by dismissed or even serving security personnel — army officers, policemen, and civilians alike. If we want to restore peace, there should be no sacred cow,” Zulum declared at the event held in Maiduguri’s Government House.

He said the ban on alcoholic beverages was necessary in light of increasing reports of cultism, prostitution, drug abuse, theft, and gang violence leading to deaths and loss of property.

The governor re-empowered the committee with representatives from the military, police, NSCDC, Civilian JTF, and others to crack down on all forms of criminality in the state capital and environs.

The committee’s co-chair echoed concerns over the worsening security situation in Maiduguri and outlined swift actions to demolish identified hotspots and criminal shelters.

While the impact of the liquor ban and potential demolition of certain establishments on Borno’s internal revenue remains uncertain, Zulum’s decision comes amid heated debates over the national tax reform bill, which he and other state leaders have supported.