The Borno State Police Command successfully prevented hoodlums from looting and vandalizing private businesses during the #endbadgovernance protest in Maiduguri on August 1. The protests resulted in the death of four individuals and left 34 others injured.
While the Police commended their actions, Hadjia Halima Ali accused them of indiscriminately shooting at innocent citizens, including her son Habilu Ali who is currently receiving medical treatment at the state specialist hospital along with other victims.
The Command’s Public Relations Officer, ASP Nahum Daso, detailed how security operatives thwarted attempts by hoodlums to loot and damage private properties. Several facilities and properties belonging to the state government were destroyed, amounting to millions of naira in damages.
Despite the chaos, the proactive measures of the police prevented further destruction. Residents like Mohamed Abba praised the police for protecting their homes and businesses during the unrest.
Governor Babagana Umara Zulum visited the victims at the state specialist hospital, providing free medical treatment and financial support to help them recover. However, discrepancies exist regarding the source of the shootings, with the Police attributing them to Boko Haram elements.