The Department of State Services (DSS) quashed rumors circulating about the looting of warehouses and food trucks in the North-East, attributing the speculations to the ongoing food crisis causing widespread hunger across the country.
An escalation in the cost of living, driven by a soaring inflation rate of approximately 29.90 percent in January and a skyrocketing foreign exchange rate reaching about ₦1,594/$1 as of 10:53 am Friday, has plunged the country into an economic crisis it has yet to recover from.
Speaking at the 15th conference of North-East directors of the state services in Damaturu, Yobe State, Babagana Bulama, Chairman of the North-East forum of the DSS, highlighted how the rising prices of goods have emboldened criminals to exploit the crisis by targeting warehouses and vehicles transporting essential goods, particularly foodstuff between states.
Bulama emphasized the gravity of the nation’s insecurity, including the persistent threats of Boko Haram insurgency, banditry, and kidnapping, now compounded by social security issues such as the food crisis, hoarding of foodstuff, hunger, starvation, and renewed threats of protests by organized labor groups like the Nigerian Labour Congress.
He underscored that the rising prices have incentivized criminals to capitalize on the challenges, attacking vital infrastructure and exacerbating the situation, while also noting the disturbing trend of economic saboteurs intent on undermining the economy, all occurring barely a year after the 2023 general election.
In response, Director of DSS Yobe State, Abdulkadir Inusa, acknowledged the significant threats faced, particularly from ISWAP and Boko Haram insurgencies, but highlighted the progress made in combating terrorism, thanks to the support of the state government and stakeholders.
Representing Governor Mai Buni, his deputy, Idi Barde-Gubana, urged proactive measures to address the numerous security challenges confronting Yobe State. He stressed the state’s vulnerability due to its proximity to Borno State, the epicenter of Boko Haram insurgencies, and its international boundaries with Niger Republic, serving as a transit route for terrorists. Barde-Gubana also noted other challenges, including herders/farmers’ seasonal crises and social maladies like rape and drug abuse, especially among youths.
Barde-Gubana called on all security stakeholders to swiftly act and protect the lives and properties of indigenes, emphasizing the importance of information sharing and collective vigilance in maintaining security.
This rewrite aims to clarify and refine the original content while ensuring accuracy and readability.
