Zulum suspends Mallam-Fatori village ward heads over absence during visit
Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has ordered the immediate suspension of all village and ward heads in Mallam-Fatori, the headquarters of Abadam Local Government Area.
The directive follows the absence of the traditional leaders during Zulum’s recent visit to the community, which is currently experiencing a return of residents displaced by the Boko Haram insurgency. The announcement was made in a statement by Zulum’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Dauda Iliya, in Maiduguri.
During his inspection of public infrastructure and evaluation of support efforts for returning residents, Zulum expressed his disappointment with the absence of the local leaders. He deemed their failure to attend the visit unacceptable, particularly at a time when residents are reestablishing their homes.
Zulum instructed the Commissioner for Local Government and Emirate Affairs, Sugun Mele, to collaborate with the Shehu of Borno in appointing new village and ward heads promptly. The governor emphasized that the new leaders should possess proven integrity, competence, and a commitment to working alongside residents, government officials, and security agencies to foster stability and development in the region.
“Traditional leaders have a critical role to play in stabilizing communities emerging from conflict,” Zulum stated. He noted that their presence is vital for maintaining communication between the government and residents, bolstering community resilience, and providing guidance for returnees settling back into their ancestral homes.
In addition to addressing local governance, Zulum visited the 68 Battalion Nigerian Army headquarters, where he praised the troops for their courage and commitment to maintaining security in the area. He assured military personnel of the state government’s ongoing support to enhance their operational effectiveness.
