Governor Mohammed Bago of Niger has declared a state of emergency on thuggery in the state. 

He also directed security agencies to decisively deal with anyone breaching public peace.

The governor’s chief press secretary, Ibrahim Bologi, disclosed this in a statement on Saturday. 

According to Mr Bologi, the governor gave the directive at the annual Mini Durbar organised by former state governor, Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu.

“Governor Umaru Bago said the State Government will not condone any form of criminal activity in the State as his administration has zero tolerance for rascality and thuggery,” he said.

He added that the governor has directed security agencies to “deal decisively with anyone caught up in thuggery or other criminal activities pointing out that sponsors of the criminal elements will also not be spared even as buildings warehousing criminals would be demolished.”

Mr Bago applauded the former governor for upholding tradition and the rich cultural heritage of horse riding, adding that the event has strengthened bond and unity among the citizenry, while vowing to ensure its sustainability.

The governor, therefore, called for unity among residents regardless of party affiliation in order to develop the state.