A tragedy struck Borno State on Thursday when an immigration officer accidentally shot himself while attempting to disperse protesters in Maiduguri, the state capital.
The officer, whose identity remains undisclosed, was part of a joint security team that included police, military, immigration, DSS, and civil defense personnel.
He was on standby, ready for action, and observing the protesters at the Bulumkutu rail junction when his rifle misfired, striking him in the leg.
The protesters were expressing their frustration with the government’s handling of the Boko Haram insurgency, economic hardship, hunger, and the removal of fuel subsidies, while security forces managed the situation at the junction.
The incident has raised concerns about the safety and training of security personnel in the state. Tensions have been escalating in recent days, with many calling for improved security measures.
Although civil society organizations had pledged not to participate in the Borno protest, this incident may influence the situation and potentially de-escalate tensions.
The officer was rushed to a nearby hospital, where his condition remains unknown.
