The Edo State Government led by Godwin Obaseki has slammed a 24-hour curfew on the state, with effect from 4pm, Monday October 19, 2020.
A statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Osarodion Ogie, on Monday, said the decision became necessary because of the very disturbing incidents of vandalism and attacks on private individuals and institutions by hoodlums in the guise of #ENDSARS protesters.
Before the curfew announcement, some hoodlums had attacked three police stations in state and freed many detainees.
The police said the thugs who claimed to be #EndSARS protesters vandalised the stations and made away with arms and ammunition.
The state government’s statement on the curfew read, “While the government of Edo State respects the rights of its citizens to undertake legitimate protests, it cannot sit idly when hoodlums have taken laws into their hands to cause mayhem on innocent citizens and the state.
“By the directive, schools and businesses are to shut down activities accordingly. Those who cannot move safely are to stay put between now and 4pm till calmness is restored.
“Parents are advised to rein in their children, youths and wards, to forestall further breakdown of law and order.
“The responsibility of government is to protect lives and property and maintain law and order, therefore, anyone found outside in violation of the curfew would be dealt with according to the law.”
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Police has condemned the attack on its facilities in Edo State on Monday.
The force through its official Twitter handle @PoliceNG said Ugbekun Police Station, Oba Market Police Station, and Idogbo Police Post were attacked by persons posing as #ENDSARS protesters.
“@policeNG regrettably confirms the unfortunate attacks on Police Facilities – Ugbekun Police Station, Oba Market Police Station, and Idogbo Police Post by persons posing as #ENDSARS protesters in Benin, Edo State, today, Monday, 19th October 2020.
“The extent of damage cannot be ascertained at the moment but the report indicates that the protesters carted away arms and ammunition from the armoury and freed the suspects in custody before setting some of the facilities ablaze.”