Plateau govt moves to stop protest, imposes 24-hour curfew

Plateau govt moves to stop protest, imposes 24-hour curfew

The Plateau government has imposed a 24-hour curfew in some parts of the middle belt State.

The State government declared the curfew in the Jos-Bukuru metropolis following the breakdown of law and order.

The declaration is contained in a statement signed by the spokesman for the governor, Gyang Bere, on Sunday.

According to the statement, the move is aimed at forestalling violence, ensuring the security of lives and maintaining public order.

The decision followed the state Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, meeting with security agencies following the nefarious activities of some characters who are using the ongoing nationwide protest as pretext to wreak havoc and hurt innocent people, the statement said.

It said, ”Plateau state Governor Caleb Mutfwang has imposed a 24-hour curfew on the Jos-Bukuru metropolis, effective from 12 midnight on Sunday, August 4, 2024. Governor Mutfwang, in consultation with state security agencies, took this decision after reviewing the actions of unscrupulous individuals who exploited the nationwide protest to unleash terror on innocent citizens.

”The governor noted that these criminal elements, armed with daggers, machetes, and other dangerous weapons, broke into shops and restaurants along Bauchi Road and Zololo Junction in Jos North local government areas, looting foodstuffs and other valuable items.

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”Governor Mutfwang emphasised that the curfew is in the best interest of all citizens and urged everyone to comply fully to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents.”

According to the spokesman, the governor has directed security agencies to ensure total enforcement of the curfew.

He warned those planning to unleash further terror on innocent citizens to desist immediately or face the full wrath of the law.

Mutfwang also charged the relevant security agencies to remain vigilant and proactive to prevent potential disruptions to law and order. He expressed gratitude to the citizens of Plateau, particularly the clergy, for their unwavering support of the government’s policies and programmes.

He acknowledged their cooperation and adherence to directives during the planned nationwide protest and praised their commitment to maintaining peace and unity.

“The peaceful conduct of our people before, during, and after the nationwide protest is commendable. I urge everyone to continue to uphold this culture of peace as we work together to build a united and progressive Plateau,” the governor stated.

Plateau govt moves to stop protest, imposes 24-hour curfew