BY CHAMBERLAIN ODEY, JOS – The Plateau State Government has announced a review of the 24-hour curfew it imposed on Jos North Local Government on Sunday.
Governor Simon Bako Lalong, who announced the review of the curfew, said that it has been relaxed to take effect from 6:00pm to 6:00am each day beginning from Thursday, August 19, 2021 till further notice.
Governor Lalong, who announced these in a statement by his Director of Press & Public Affairs, Dr. Makut Simon Macham explained that new arrangement will also apply to Bassa and Jos South Local Government Areas untill further notice.
The statement further stated that the decision was reached after the State Security Council meeting held at the Government House, Rayfield on Wednesday, August 18, 2021 where the Governor received briefings from the heads of security agencies and also reviewed the situation.
In relaxing the curfew, Governor Simon Lalong warned trouble makers to desist from threatening lives and properties of citizens or be ready for a showdown with security forces who have been directed to be tough with anyone causing a breach of the peace.
He expressed outrage over what he called the desperation of criminals bent on causing mayhem in the State.
Lalong said that there were isolated attacks which led to loss of lives and destruction of properties in some areas of Jos North and Bassa LGAs during the curfew.
It further states; “While the curfew is relaxed in Jos North, security agencies will mount permanent checkpoints in high vulnerable areas; deploy more uniform and plain clothes personnel; and also observe the conduct of citizens round the clock”.
The Governor also reiterated that the prohibition on processions was still in force and warned that anyone found violating the order will be dealt with according to the law.
Governor Lalong appreciated the cooperation of law abiding citizens and urged them to continue to support the government to deal with the situation and restore normalcy to the affected areas and the State at large.
He also urged parents and community leaders to prevail on their wards to maintain peace, saying that the government does not want to be forced to always resort to curfews which affect the economy and freedom of the people and the State as a whole.
