Lalong Declares Curfew in Jos over Hausa/Igbo Clash

By Mpaka Numbere

A dusk to dawn curfew has been declared in some parts of the city of Jos by the Governor of Plateau State, Mr Simon Lalong, over reports of disturbances in parts of Jos.

The announcement, made through a statement by the spokesperson of the government of Plateau State, Mr Emmanuel Nanle, on Thursday evening, said due to the pockets of violence, “the Governor has directed an immediate imposition of curfew from dusk to dawn (6pm – 6am) within the Greater Jos – Bukuru Metropolis, until further notice.”

He said security agencies had been directed to effect strict compliance with the curfew.

“The deployment of security personnel to all flash-points within the metropolis has also been directed to ensure compliance with the curfew order and to avert any further breach of law and order.”

See the full text announcing the curfew below:

DIRECTORATE OF PRESS & PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICE OF THE EXECUTIVE GOVERNOR, PLATEAU STATE

PRESS RELEASE

The Executive Governor of Plateau State has expressed great dismay and shock at the sudden build-up of tension in Jos Metropolis on account of the conduct of some disgruntled elements, who have decided to throw the metropolis into confusion on account of their negative reaction to the agitations of Independent People of Biafra (IPOB) in the South East.

Consequently, the Governor has directed an immediate imposition of curfew from dusk to dawn (6pm – 6am) within the Greater Jos – Bukuru Metropolis, until further notice. The deployment of security personnel to all flash points within the metropolis has also been directed to ensure compliance with the curfew order and to avert any further breach of law and order.

The Governor wishes to assure all citizens that the security and welfare as the primary concern of Government is assured by the Rescue Administration. He is therefore enjoining all citizens to go about their business with the assurance that their safety is guaranteed. He further appealed to all religious and community leaders, neighbourhood vigilantes as well as all law abiding citizens to ensure nobody is allowed to take advantage of this unfortunate situation to engage in criminality.

The Governor wishes to restate that Plateau State remains home to all citizens of Nigeria irrespective of religion, ethnic extraction or political persuasion. He therefore enjoins all peace loving citizens to ensure that nothing is allowed to upset the hard earned peace in the State.