Posted on Jan 07, 2020
The governor, had on Monday, accused soldiers and policemen on watch at the entry point into Maiduguri of extorting N1000 from individuals, who could not present their National ID card.
The accusation made the authority of the Nigerian Army to issue a statement that an investigation had been approved into unravelling and punishing officials involved in the crime.
The action by the Army was replied to in a statement on Tuesday by the spokesman of the governor, Mallam Isa Gusau.
The statement said, “Governor Zulum is very pleased with the swift action from the Army Headquarters and by implication, Headquarters of Operation Lafiya Dole.
“The decision to immediately investigate some conducts around Njimtilo in the course of (the absolute necessity to search vehicles for security purpose) only reaffirms what all Nigerians already do of the exceptional leadership style of the Chief of Army Staff, leadership of the theatre commander of Operation Lafiya Dole and many officers and men that have given so much in trying to find peace in Borno.
“Governor Zulum’s encounter with security officials around Njimtilo yesterday (Monday) happened spontaneously. He was on his way to Jakana to meet citizens over a recent attack by insurgents.
“Going to Jakana required the Governor’s convoy passing through Njimtilo. As someone who took an oath to serve the people of Borno State under every situation, he could not drive past the gridlock he saw around Njimtilo, hence he needed to step in.
“Zulum acknowledges and respects the sacrifices of these soldiers and the fact that they put their lives on the line operating in high ways, where insurgents try to ambush them.
“The Governor recognises all of these and the fact that the military needs and deserves his support and the support of all citizens.