From Jude Owuamanam, Jos
Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has relaxed the curfew imposed on the Jos and Bukuru metropolis for four hours.
Residents are now allowed to go out from 2 pm to 6 pm.
The governor had imposed a 24-hour curfew in the two cities following an outbreak of violence in the Zololo and Nasarawa areas of Jos.
Protesters, defying the curfew, resorted to looting and shooting at security agents called in to maintain order following the ongoing 10-day protest by Nigerians against harsh economic conditions in the country.
In a statement signed by the Director of Press and Public Affairs, Gyang Bere, the relaxation followed the improvement in the security situation within the Jos-Bukuru metropolis.
The statement reads, “Following the improvement in the security situation within the Jos and Bukuru metropolis, the Plateau State Government has announced a relaxation of the earlier imposed 24-hour curfew.
“Effective from Wednesday, August 7, 2024, residents of the area can now move freely between the hours of 2 pm and 6 pm daily until further notice.”
The statement said that the governor ordered the relaxation after consultation with security agencies.
Bere quoted the governor as praising the security agents for their diligence and commitment to ensuring strict compliance with the curfew.
He emphasised the importance of maintaining vigilance to prevent any potential breakdown of law and order and assured that the government would continue to review the curfew as the situation improved.
The governor urged residents within the Jos-Bukuru metropolis to cooperate with security personnel and report any suspicious activities for prompt action. He assured the public of the government’s unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of all citizens.
He commended the residents for their patriotism in observing the curfew, noting that their cooperation is vital for the collective interests of the state.