Security Operatives Disagree Over Food Distribution To IDPs

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A policeman is reported to have been injured following an exchange of gunfire between soldiers and the police at the Borno State Government House in Maiduguri.

The fight was said to have erupted following disagreement over the distribution of foodstuff to Internally Displaced Persons.

The distribution of the food items for Ramadan was moved closer to the Government House after hoodlums reportedly hijacked the exercise in the outskirts of Maiduguri.

In a joint statement, signed by Commander, 7 Division Garrison, Operation Lafiya Dole, Col. S.B Kumapaiye and Commissioner of Police, Borno State Command, Aminchi Baraya, they explained that they have commenced an investigation into the matter, promising to make their findings public knowledge as soon as possible.

“The distribution was meant to take place at 28 wards of the two local government areas unfortunately, when the exercise was launched in old Maiduguri ward for Jere local government area and at Shehuri north ward for Maiduguri on Sunday, hoodlums overpowered the committee in both instances and made away with many bags of the rice meant for the displaced persons.

“As a result, officials tasked with the distribution shifted the exercise to two premises around the office of the Deputy Governor outside the Government House in order to ensure security of the food items while beneficiaries were identified and issued with allocation notes to give them access to the distribution centers.

“The exercise had gone smoothly since Sunday with some wards covered, until the unfortunate development today (Thursday).

“The Nigerian Army and the Nigeria Police Force in Maiduguri jointly condemn this unfortunate incident which was quickly brought under full control within minutes.

“The Army and the Police are jointly investigating the cause of the fracas with a view to ensuring that anyone found culpable amongst the security men are made to face disciplinary measures in line with laid down rules of the Nigerian Armed Forces. Findings and measures taken will be brought to public knowledge as soon as possible.

“The Army and the police operating in Borno assure the general public that they will continue to collaborate and work together towards their ongoing counter insurgency and civil security efforts that have led to the emerging peace in Borno State.

“The Army and the Police commands in Borno State call on all personnel to exercise restraint in the cause of their duties and should strive to respect one another and work together to secure innocent citizens and maintain peace”, the joint statement said.

They also gave the assurance that they will continue to collaborate towards advancing the ongoing counter insurgency and civil security efforts that have led to the emerging peace in Borno State.