Borno State governor, Babagana Zulum, has given a 12-hour quit notice to brothels and criminal dens notorious for prostitution, gangsterism and other illicit activities in Maiduguri, the state capital.
Zulum gave the directive during a visit to ‘Bayan Quarters’, a settlement around Railway Staff Quarters, which harbours the brothels and criminals in Maiduguri.
According to a statement issued on Tuesday, “the area harbours gangsters, criminal activities and minors for commercial sex activities.”
The governor expressed concern over the rise in criminal activities associated with the illegal brothels and criminal dens in the area, including prostitution, drug peddling, and other illicit activities.
He noted that the activities not only posed a threat to the security of the state but also perpetuate social vices that undermine the well-being of communities and the dignity of the individuals involved.
Zulum explained that while the settlement, which harbours the criminals and underaged girls for commercial sex activities will be demolished in 72 hours, the illegal brothels, however, have 12 hours to vacate the place.
“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.
Zulum also announced the revocation of the land title where such criminal activities were perpetrated, which he said was initially approved for use by the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC).
“I understand that this land was approved by Borno State Government to be used by the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), 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 Borno State Government,” Zulum stated.
