Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has imposed a 24-hour curfew on the Jos and Bukuru metropolises to maintain order and ensure public safety, effective midnight on Sunday, August 4, 2024.
News About Nigeria gathered that this action comes in response to threats from residents of Bauchi Road in Jos North, who warned of unleashing mayhem on those not participating in the ongoing protests against bad governance.
Earlier, a coalition of youths in Jos announced a two-day suspension of street protests, effective Monday and Tuesday, to allow for negotiations with the Federal Government.
They vowed to resume protests if no concrete steps were taken to address their demands.
The state government and notable figures, including Senator Diket Plang, representing Plateau Central, praised the residents for their peaceful protests.
However, in a surprising turn of events, hundreds of protesters flooded Bauchi Road on Sunday, warning traders and residents to join them on Monday or shut down their businesses to prevent damage to their properties.
They expressed dissatisfaction with President Bola Tinubu’s recent broadcast, stating that it failed to address the nation’s pressing challenges.
In a statement signed by the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor, Gyang Bere, Governor Mutfwang described the curfew as a necessary step to enhance security and maintain public order.
The decision was made in consultation with state security agencies after reviewing the actions of individuals who had exploited the nationwide protests to terrorise innocent citizens.
The governor noted that criminal elements, armed with dangerous weapons, had looted shops and restaurants along Bauchi Road and Zololo Junction.
He said that the curfew was in the best interest of all citizens and urged full compliance to ensure everyone’s safety and well-being.
Security agencies in the state have been directed to enforce the curfew strictly.
Governor Mutfwang warned those planning to perpetrate further violence to desist immediately or face the full wrath of the law.
He also called on security agencies to remain vigilant and proactive in preventing any potential disruptions to law and order.
The governor expressed gratitude to the citizens of Plateau State, particularly religious leaders, for their support of government policies and adherence to directives during the protests.
He praised their commitment to maintaining peace and unity, urging them to continue upholding this culture of peace.
