‘Breeding space for insurgents’ — Zulum orders demolition of brothels in Maiduguri

Babagana Zulum, governor of Borno, has ordered the demolition of brothels and other black spot structures in Maiduguri, the state capital.

Zulum spoke on Tuesday during a visit to Bayan Quarters,  a settlement suspected to be harbouring illicit drug dealers, criminals, and prostitutes.

He said the increased rate of criminal activities in the state has been linked to the activities of brothels, adding that it is threatening the safety of the people.

He directed that all structures shielding criminals and minor girls for commercial activities be demolished within 72 hours.

The governor added that operators of the illegal brothels have 12 hours to vacate the building.

“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,” NAN quoted Zulum as saying.

“I have directed that everybody should vacate the place.”

The governor further said he has rescinded the land titles earlier approved for the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), adding that it was being used for criminal operations.

“I understand that this land was approved by the Borno government to be used by the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), but it has been rented out illegally with all forms of criminal activities taking place,” he added.

“For this reason, the government has revoked the earlier approval; henceforth, the land belongs to the Borno government.”