The Department of State Services has addressed Speculations and reports circulating regarding the looting of warehouses and food trucks in the North-East, fueled by the ongoing food crisis.
The rise in the cost of living, driven by a soaring inflation rate of about 29.90 percent in January and a foreign exchange rate of about ₦1,594/$1 as of 10:53 am Friday, has plunged the country into an economic crisis.
Chairman of the North-East forum of the DSS, Babagana Bulama clarified the situation during the 15th conference of the North-East directors of the state services at Damaturu, Yobe State.
He shed light on the impact of rising prices, stating, “The rising prices of goods have motivated hoodlums to take advantage of the challenges to attack warehouses and vehicles with goods, particularly foodstuff being transported from one state to the other.”
Highlighting the broader issues at hand, Bulama mentioned the convergence of multiple challenges, including food crisis, hoarding of foodstuff, hunger, starvation, and threats of protests by organized labor groups. He emphasized the exploitation of these challenges by both hoodlums and economic saboteurs, with a concerning trend of attacks on essential goods.
Director of DSS Yobe State, Abdulkadir Inusa, acknowledged the significant threats faced, particularly from the Islamic State’s West Africa Province and Boko Haram insurgencies. Despite these challenges, Inusa expressed gratitude for the support of the state government in the fight against terrorism.
Governor Mai Buni, represented by Deputy Governor Idi Barde-Gubana, urged proactive measures to address the state’s security challenges.
He emphasized the need for all security stakeholders to act swiftly in protecting lives and properties, stating, “Security is the business of everybody. If you see something, say something to the appropriate authorities.”
