Lalong Reimposes 24-Hour Curfew In Jos Over Looting
Governor Simon Lalong on Saturday reimposed a 24-hour curfew in Jos, the Plateau state capital, barely 48-hours after relaxing the first.
The latest curfew was announced few hours after hoodlums and residents broke into government warehouses on Saturday and carted away palliatives while accusing the government of hoarding the relief materials.
Announcing the latest curfew in an address to the people of the state on Saturday, the Governor said that the curfew which will start from 4pm will run till further notice
Lalong said ” Fellow citizens of Plateau State, you will recall that I announced a 24-hour curfew in Jos South and Jos North Local Government Areas on 20th October 2020 in response to the disturbances that arose when hoodlums hijacked the ENDSARS protests leading to the destruction of lives and properties.
After an assessment of the situation, the curfew was relaxed from the hours of 6am to 8pm from yesterday 23rd October 2020.
However today, some hoodlums broke into the warehouses where palliatives delivered to the State by the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development last week were stored awaiting distribution and carted them away.
“This looting has spread to other facilities and is gradually degenerating thereby threatening the peace and security of the State.
To avoid further escalation, I hereby direct the immediate reinstatement of the 24-hour curfew earlier relaxed from 4pm today 24th October 2020 in Jos South and Jos North Local Government Areas till further notice.
“By this, security agencies are directed to enforce the curfew and ensure that all violators are arrested and prosecuted.
“I call on all citizens and stakeholders to continue to cooperate with Government in ensuring the peace and progress of Plateau State.”
The sudden reinstatement caused panic in Jos and Bukuru metropolis as residents in market places and those attending weddings struggle to return home to avoid being caught up by the curfew hours.
