By SADIQ ABUBAKAR, Maiduguri –
Borno State Government has sealed off the office of an international NGO, iMMAP France, for operating in the state without the necessary registration and authorisation from relevant authorities
This is contained in a statement issued and signed on Saturday by the Directorate of Information , Borno State Ministry of Information and Internal Security and made available to newsmen in Maiduguri.
According to the statement, the action is taken to ensure compliance with the law and to prevent further illegal activities of the organisation as enshrined in the provisions outlined by the Borno State Agency for the Coordination of Sustainable Development and Humanitarian Response under section 9 (6)(7)(a)(b) which states “No Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) may operate within the state without being duly registered and certificate issued may be cancelled or suspended upon satisfactory confirmation”.
“Consequently, all partners/personnel affiliated with iMMAP France are to note that access to the sealed premises is strictly prohibited and any attempt to tamper with or circumvent this action will be met with appropriate legal consequences. Furthermore, security agencies and concerned individuals are advised to remain vigilant with a view to preventing any activity being carried out by iMMAP France or its representatives within the state.
“On this note, the BOSG wishes to advise all civil society organisations working in the State to conform strictly with the legal framework and governance protocols for the non-governmental and humanitarian services sector in Borno State.
“It also wishes to acknowledge the humanitarian support of all legally-registered and rule-compliant non-governmental organizations operating in the State. However, the Government operates a zero-tolerance against erring entities.
“The BOSG will continue to maintain vigilance on NGOs and INGOs to protect public interest and preserve our due processes.
DISCLAIMER
The OPINION / COLUMN is authored by independent contributors to the National Accord Newspaper. While contributors adhere to our editorial guidelines, they are not employed by the National Accord Newspaper. The perspectives and opinions expressed herein are solely those of the author and do not represent the views of the National Accord Newspaper or its staff.
Leave a Reply