Gov. Simon Lalong of Plateau has reinstated the 24-hour curfew in Jos South and Jos North Local Government Areas, effective from 4 p.m. on Saturday till further notice.
The governor first imposed a 24-hour curfew on Tuesday, Oct. 20, but relaxed it on Friday, Oct. 23, after a meeting with critical stakeholders in the state.
Lalong, however, announced the reinstatement of the lockdown in a statement on Saturday in Jos, following attacks on some warehouses in the state.
“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 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. from 23rd October, 2020.
“However, 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 and threatening the peace and security of the state,” he said.
Lalong said that the latest curfew was to forestall further escalation of such looting or any unrest.
He said that security agencies had been directed to enforce the curfew and ensure that all violators were 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,” he said.
