IPOB Crisis: Plateau Governor Imposes Indefinite Curfew on Jos

The Governor of Plateau State, Simon Lalong, has declared an indefinite dusk to dawn curfew on the state capital, Jos.

Lalong who announced the measure on Thursday evening through a statement by his spokesperson, Emmanuel Nanle, following reports of disturbances in parts of Jos, stated that “consequently, the governor has directed an immediate imposition of curfew from dusk to dawn (6p.m. – 6a.m.) within the Greater Jos – Bukuru Metropolis, until further notice.”

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

According the statement, “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 statement issued by the state Directorate of Press and Public Affairs Office of the Governor said: “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.

“He 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.”