Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum, has imposed an immediate ban on the sale of petrol in all filling stations across Bama Local Government Area, including Bama town and Banki, as part of intensified security measures against insurgents.
The governor’s Special Adviser on Media and Strategy, Malam Dauda Iliya, announced the directive in a statement issued on Saturday in Maiduguri, following consultations with security agencies.
Governor Zulum emphasized that the ban would be enforced without exceptions, warning violators of severe consequences.
“I have directed the immediate ban on the sale of petrol in Bama town, Banki, and other parts of Bama Local Government Area with immediate effect,” Zulum declared.
“Let me make it clear, there will be no sacred cows in the enforcement of this ban. Security agencies have been given strict orders to clamp down on any filling station or individual contravening this directive. Anyone found culpable will be dealt with accordingly,” he added.
The move is part of the state government’s broader strategy to disrupt the supply chain of insurgent groups, particularly by restricting their access to fuel, which is often used to power vehicles and motorcycles in attacks.
Zulum reiterated his administration’s commitment to restoring lasting peace in Borno and called for residents’ cooperation in the ongoing counter-insurgency efforts.
This latest directive aligns with Governor Zulum’s previous actions aimed at weakening insurgent operations, including restrictions on the sale of fertilizers (which can be used to make explosives) and the regulation of motorcycle movements in high-risk areas.
The ban comes as security forces intensify operations in the North-East, where insurgent activities have persisted despite significant military gains in recent years.
