Breaking: Lalong imposes 24 hours curfew in Jos North, Jos South as three killed

By Moses Mark

Plateau State Governor Barr. Simon Lalong has imposed 24 hours curfew in two Jos North and Jos South Local Government Areas of the State.

Lalong in a State broadcast on Tuesday evening describe as unfortunate that in the past few days, the #ENDSARS protests which began peacefully has gradually degenerated to the situation where hoodlums have attacked and molested innocent citizens who are going about their normal businesses.

“I have directed the imposition of a 24-hour curfew in Jos South and Jos North Local Government Areas with effect from 8:00 pm today Tuesday, October 20, 2020 till further notice. By this directive, all forms of protests are hereby banned in the two Local Governments Areas of Jos North and Jos South.

“Furthermore, all public and private businesses are to shutdown activities immediately while parents are strongly advised to rein in their children, youth and wards to forestall further breakdown of law and order. Only those on essential services will be allowed to move around to their duty posts”.

“Government has watched closely these protests which are normal in a democracy that guarantees the rights of citizens to ventilate their grievances over any matter.

He said the development took a new turn on Tuesday 20th October 2020 when the protests led to the destruction of properties, cars and looting of business premises along the Ahmadu Bello way as well as the burning of a place of worship along Gyero Road in Bukuru. In addition, three deaths have been recorded.

“Having received briefing from security agencies and after a careful assessment of the situation, Government is left with no choice than to impose a curfew to stop further loss of lives and properties”

Lalong disclosed that only those on essential services will be allowed to move around to their duty posts.

“Security agencies have been directed to ensure that the curfew is enforced as defaulters will be arrested and prosecuted”.

Governor however  said his administration shall continue to support the agitation for a wholistic reform of the policing architecture in the country as well as advocate for further reforms towards the rapid implementation of community policing which he has strongly canvassed for.