Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has pledged his administration’s support to ensure citizens, particularly victims of Boko Haram insurgency, have access to justice.
The governor made the assurance during a meeting with the Director-General of the Legal Aid Council, Barrister Aliyu Bagudu Abubakar, and his management team at the Government House in Maiduguri.
Governor Zulum stressed the importance of legal representation and expressed commitment to support the vulnerable. “Let me assure you that our people will not be left behind in access to justice, especially the teeming vulnerable people who are victims of Boko Haram insurgency,” Zulum said.
He directed a collaborative effort between the council and state government. “The office of the Attorney General should work closely with your office to come up with a plan on how to harmonize the Office of Public Defenders and that of Citizens Rights Department already existing in the state for the benefit of our people,” he stated.
The governor urged the council to submit a formal request and promised a considered review. “I assure you that we shall look into your demands and see how we can address some of them within the limited resources of the state.
Earlier in his remarks, the Director-General of the Legal Aid Council, Barrister Aliyu Bagudu Abubakar, informed the governor that the council has been providing crucial legal services to insurgency victims and displaced persons, handling cases ranging from property disputes and family matters to gender-based violence.
“From 2021 to 2023, we successfully handled over 2,500 cases including criminal defence, civil matters, and mediation,” Bagudu reported.
To enhance their activities in the state, the Director General requested operational vehicles, an annual subvention, and office furniture and equipment.
The event was attended by the Deputy Governor, Hon. Umar Usman Kadafur; the Senator representing Borno Central, Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan SAN; the Acting Chief of Staff, Dr Babagana Malumbe; other members of the State Executive Council, and Special Advisers.
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