(In Nigeria) Governor Zulum Takes Firm Stance Against Alcohol Sales in Borno to Combat Crime

Borno State Governor Professor Babagana Zulum has announced a ban on the sale of alcohol in the state, citing concerns over rising criminal activities and antisocial behaviors. During the inauguration of a committee tasked with addressing illegal activities such as unregistered hotels, brothels, shanties, and criminal hideouts, Zulum accused both current and former security personnel—military, police, and other security forces—of promoting or being complicit in criminality, radicalism, prostitution, and other vices that undermine security.

He highlighted that some of the individuals involved in these illicit activities are dismissed or current security officers, emphasizing that no one should be exempt from scrutiny if progress is to be achieved in Maiduguri and the wider state. Zulum noted that the increasing cases of clashes, cultism, drug abuse, theft, and violence have led to loss of lives and valuables, prompting the ban on alcohol sales, which is seen as a measure to curb these issues.

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The governor also announced the reconstitution and empowerment of a committee comprising security agencies—including the military, police, Civil Defence, Civilian JTF, and others—to take a comprehensive approach in tackling criminality and antisocial behaviors. This includes demolition of structures believed to harbor criminal activities.

The ban on alcohol sales and consumption is a controversial move, and it remains to be seen whether it will impact the state's internal revenue, especially given ongoing debates and reforms related to taxation and revenue generation in Nigeria. This decision underscores the government’s focus on improving security and social order in Maiduguri and its environs.