Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum has ordered the demolition of brothels and criminal dens in Maiduguri, the state capital.
Zulum gave the directive during a visit to Bayan Quarters, a settlement around the Railway Staff Quarters, on Tuesday.
He expressed concern about the rise in criminal activities associated with the brothels, including prostitution, gangsterism and drug peddling.
“The government has been duly informed of the activities that are going on here, this settlement is completely illegal. People are killed here, this place serves as a breeding space for insurgents. Therefore, I have directed that everybody should vacate the place,” Zulum said.
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He also announced the revocation of the land title where such criminal activities were perpetuated, which he said was initially approved for use by the Nigerian Railway Corporation.
“I understand that this land was approved by the Borno State Government to be used by the Nigerian Railway Corporation, but unfortunately, it’s been rented out illegally with all forms of criminal activities taking place.
“For this reason, the government has revoked the earlier approval and henceforth, the land belongs to the Borno State Government,” he added.
Zulum’s directive comes amid concerns about the growing insecurity in Maiduguri and other parts of Borno State. The state has been ravaged by the Boko Haram insurgency for over a decade.
The demolition of the brothels and criminal dens is expected to help reduce crime and improve security in Maiduguri.
Source: Punch Ng