Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno has claimed that 95% of the youths involved in Thursday’s violent protests in Maiduguri were children under the age of 14.
In a broadcast to the people of Borno, Zulum announced the lifting of the 24-hour curfew previously imposed on the state. He expressed concern that many young children, some as young as six, participated in the protests without understanding the reasons behind them, suggesting they were directed by others. He emphasized the need for proper care and supervision of Almajiri children, who are often left without guardians.
Zulum highlighted the urgency of addressing the issue of thousands of unsupervised children living in Maiduguri under the guise of Almajiri education. He condemned the actions of hoodlums who hijacked the protests, leading to the destruction and looting of public properties, including hospitals.
He also noted that attempts to attack the Maiduguri Emergency Power Gas Plant were thwarted by security forces. Zulum urged citizens to reject violence and warned that any future incidents of looting or violence would be met with strict consequences.
Governor Zulum reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving the state, mentioning ongoing interventions in infrastructure, health, and education. He detailed the distribution of food and non-food items, support for farmers, and plans to invest in irrigation agriculture and livestock development.
