Katsina reviews curfew as police arraign protesters

From Agaju Madugba, Katsina

The Katsina State government has reviewed the 24-hour curfew earlier imposed on Dutsinma Local Government Area.

Government applied the curfew in the wake of the hunger protest last Thursday, which turned violent in parts of the state.

The curfew period in Dutsinma was reduced to 7pm to 7am, along with the 33 other local government areas.

A statement on Tuesday from office of the Secretary to the State Government, Abdullahi Garba Faskari, explained that government took the decision after receiving a report of the improved security situation in the area.

The statement, signed by the director of press, Abdullahi Aliyu Yar’adua, said, “His Excellency, the Acting Governor of Katsina State, Malam Faruk Lawal, has approved the review of the 24-hour restriction of movement order imposed on Dutsinma Local Government to join the 33 other local government areas of the state under the 7:00pm to 7:00am curfew.

“The Acting Governor, who chaired a meeting of the State Security Council, directed the ban on unusual gatherings and all types of protests to remain imposed throughout the state.

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“He appreciated the civil manner in which the security agents handled the hoodlums who hijacked the peaceful protest with a view to committing criminal activities.

“Meanwhile, the State Security Council announced the arrest of several youths in connection with the recent violence, looting and vandalism of public and private property.

“Speaking after the meeting, the Secretary to the State Government said that some of those arrested had already been charged to court for alleged criminal conspiracy, causing public disturbance, vandalism and theft.”