Politicians in Borno recruiting, using armed thugs to intimidate opponents at rallies – NSCDC

The Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Borno on Tuesday raised alarm over the recruitment of armed thugs for political campaigns in the state.

Mr Ibrahim Abdullahi, the state’s NSCDC Commandant, told newsmen in Maiduguri that the command had noticed an influx of such thugs at campaign grounds.

Abdullahi said that the thugs were being used by politicians to intimidate opponents at political rallies.

“Such actions by these politicians could mar the fragile peace recorded. The insurgents can equally disguise among them to perpetrate unsuspected attacks.

“We, therefore, warn politicians that these nefarious activities are contrary to Section 227 of the 1999 constitution (as amended) and Sections 94 and 95 of the Electoral Act,” he said.