Immigration officer shoots self in Borno protest

A tragedy struck Borno State on Thursday when an immigration officer accidentally shot himself while trying 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 defence personnel.

He was standing by, ready for action, and observing the protesters at the Bulumkutu rail junction when his rifle misfired, hitting him in the leg.

The protesters, who were expressing their frustration with the government’s handling of the Boko Haram insurgency, economic hardship, hunger, and the removal of fuel subsidies, were being managed by security forces at the junction.

The incident has raised concerns about the safety and training of security personnel in the state. Tensions have been rising in recent days, with many calling for improved security measures.

Although civil society organisations 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.

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