Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring that citizens, especially victims of the Boko Haram insurgency, have access to justice.

Governor Zulum gave the assurance when he received the Director-General of the Legal Aid Council, Barrister Aliyu Bagudu Abubakar, and his management team at the Government House, Maiduguri.

The governor stressed the importance of legal representation for vulnerable groups, noting that no resident of the state should be denied justice.

“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,” he said.

Professor Zulum directed the Attorney General’s Office to work closely with the Legal Aid Council to harmonise the functions of the Office of the Public Defender and the Citizens’ Rights Department for improved service delivery.

He urged the council to submit a formal request, adding that the government would examine their needs and address what is possible within available resources.

Earlier, the Director-General of the Legal Aid Council, Barrister Aliyu Bagudu Abubakar, said the agency has been providing essential legal services to victims of insurgency and displaced persons.

According to him, the council has handled more than 2,500 cases—including criminal defence, civil matters and mediation—between 2021 and 2023.

He requested operational vehicles, annual subvention, office furniture and equipment to strengthen their operations in the state.

The meeting was attended by the Deputy Governor, Umar Usman Kadafur; Senator representing Borno Central, Kaka Shehu Lawan (SAN); the Acting Chief of Staff, Dr. Babagana Malumbe; members of the State Executive Council and Special Advisers.