The Borno Security Council has reaffirmed the ban on the use of motorcycles in the state for security reasons. 

The use of motorcycles has been banned in most parts of the state for the past 10 years as part of measures to contain the insurgency. 

Briefing journalists on the outcome of the 4th session of the state security meeting in Maiduguri, the commissioner for information and internal security, Usman Tar, said the council also cautioned against extortion of motorists.

“Council also instructed all security commanders to ensure that their operatives desist from extorting motorists on the highway.

“Council also reaffirmed the ban on illegal mining and instructed all security agencies to ensure that the ban prevails.”

Mr Tar further said that the council, which discussed security updates in the state, appreciated the successes of both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches being used in the fight against insurgents, particularly the mass surrender and management of insurgents under the Borno nodel.

While noting the lack of congestion problem in Borno correctional centres, Mr Tar said that the council showed appreciation and urged the ministry of justice to further work with authorities of the correctional service to identify inmates to be released under the prerogative of mercy.

“Council also reaffirms support for the decision of the Borno Government to relocate the remaining displaced persons and refugees back to their ancestral homes and urges all security agencies to support the process. 

“Council also discussed the clearance of farmland in order to ensure food security and sustainability in our state,” Mr Tar said.

While noting the recent successes recorded in tackling the problem of electricity and water supply in Maiduguri and environs, the commissioner warned saboteurs causing the problems to desist.

He said a committee would soon be inaugurated to fish out people constructing mini dams in their houses to obstruct and store water from public pipelines for sale to the public. 

(NAN)