From Olukayode Idowu, Maiduguri
Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum, has suspended an international Non-Governmental Organisation (iNGO), ACTED, from operating in the troubled state following the discovery that it was conducting training in firearms shooting.
According to the Governor’s spokesman, Mallam Isa Gusau who made the announcement, the humanitarian iNGO was earlier on Saturday discovered to be conducting training in firearm shooting for some persons in a hotel in Maiduguri.
Gusau said the French iNGO was found using toy guns and simulators in training exercises at a hotel located off Circular Road in Maiduguri.
According to the spokesman, residents near the hotel had reported to officials that they were hearing sounds of gunshots from the hotel, following which government officials reported the matter to GRA Divisional Police Headquarters which oversees the hotel’s location.
The police subsequently found three toy pistols at the hotel and two trainers were arrested, both Nigerians, who were detained at the police station with investigation ongoing.
The governor had directed the sealing off of the hotel and suspension of ACTED from any humanitarian activity in Borno State pending the outcome of investigation.
Gusau said his boss acknowledged and deeply appreciated the roles of credible iNGOs which have been providing critical humanitarian interventions in different parts of Borno.
He however assured them of government’s continued cooperation and support while also upholding obedience to prevailing laws, policies and rules guiding all activities and actions across the state.
