Borno Governor vows crackdown on drug markets, blames Konduga bombing on narcotics trade
Story by Zara Ahmed
Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, on Monday blamed the recent suicide bombing in Konduga Local Government Area on the presence of illicit drug markets, vowing to enforce a ban on the sale of alcohol and drugs across all 27 local government areas of the state.
The governor made this known during a sympathy visit to the affected community, where he promised a statewide crackdown on all illegal drug markets, unapproved structures, and locations that promote criminal activities.
Recall that PUNCH Online had reported on June 20, 2025, that a suicide bomber detonated an explosive in Konduga, killing 12 people and injuring 18 others.
Speaking during the visit, Zulum said, “We are here to commiserate with the victims of the bomb blast that occurred in Konduga. A delegation had earlier visited to sympathise with the victims, but I have come personally to express my condolences.
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“More importantly, the government had earlier directed that illegal activities must not take place in the area. However, the vicinity where the blast occurred is known as a joint where people sell marijuana and engage in various criminal acts. The community had previously reported this and requested decisive government action.
“The government, through the task force on the ban and sale of illegal drugs and operations of unauthorised structures, had warned those operating such joints to vacate. Unfortunately, they ignored the warnings. I urge the people of Konduga and the general public to desist from such activities.”
Zulum also noted that many illicit drug operators who were previously dislodged from Maiduguri have now relocated to rural areas like Konduga, where their activities continue unchecked.
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He stated that the state government would collaborate with the Borno State House of Assembly to ensure full enforcement of the recently signed Executive Order banning illegal activities such as marijuana (Indian hemp) sales and prostitution—not just in Maiduguri but throughout the state.
According to him, the House of Assembly will on Tuesday review and strengthen the state’s sanitation law.
“The revised law will empower law enforcement agencies to arrest offenders without a warrant and ensure its enforcement across all 27 local government areas of the state,” he said.
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The governor also announced the formation of a high-powered committee tasked with identifying and shutting down drug centres across the state.
“Structures harbouring illicit drug activities will be demolished, and offenders arrested and prosecuted. The government will not fold its arms while criminals endanger lives.
“All joints where marijuana and other illegal drugs are sold will be dismantled, and perpetrators will be dealt with according to the law. We must act swiftly to prevent further occurrences. The safety and stability of our communities remain our top priority”, he warned.
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