The Yobe State government has responded to the story of the destruction of billboards by sone youths in Damaturu, the state capital.
The government had erected billboards to welcome President Bola Tinubu to the state for the launch of the Yobe Agricultural Empowerment Programme, on Saturday.
Vice President Kashim Shettima represented President Tinubu at the launch of the programme in Damaturu.
According to the president’s representative, the programme is at the heart of his administration’s ongoing efforts to enhance food security, create jobs, and diversify Nigeria’s economy through agriculture.
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The president stressed the critical role of agriculture in national development and security, saying “food is the heart of security in every society.”
In a viral clip of 1 minute and 5 seconds, youths were seen climbing one of the billboards, which had photos of President Tinubu, Vice President Shettima and Governor Mai Buni.
“Thank you Mr President. Have a safe trip,” was boldly written on the billboard.
The youths vandalised it and tore out the banner with the message, giving the impression that they did so out of protest.
But in a statement, Mamman Mohammed, Director-General, Press, and Media Affairs to Yobe Governor, clarified what transpired.
“Our attention has been drawn to an online story that youth destroyed Bill boards erected to welcome personalities in protest during the launch of the State Agricultural Empowerment Programme in Damaturu.
“The story is misleading. There was no rancour reported before, during and after the launch yesterday. It was a huge success as everyone moved freely throughout the period of the launch. What actually happened was, after the exercise yesterday, some youth scrambled for the flex posters welcoming the dignitaries and the iron rods used for the Bill boards.
“The scramble for such materials including iron rods, pipes, carpets and flex posters by the youth is seen as booty, and has become a common practice. These are now common after political party rallies and other public gatherings.
The public is hereby advised to disregard the false and misleading online publication.”
Editor’s note: This story has been updated to reflect the response of Yobe govt
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