24-hour curfew in Damaturu after B’Haram raid

Following Monday’s attack on Damaturu, the capital of Yobe state, Governor Ibrahim Gaidam (pictured) has imposed a 24-hour curfew on the town.

Gaidam commended the military for repelling the attack, calling on the people to cooperate with the security operatives and pray for the return of peace in the state.

On Geidam’s behalf, Abdullahi Bego, the special adviser to the governor on press affairs and information, directed all residents of the town not to leave their homes until the curfew is relaxed.

“All Damaturu residents are advised to remain in their homes during the hours of the curfew,” Bego’s statement read.

“The decision is taken as part of measures to enable the security agents, who did a great job yesterday, to conclude their ongoing assignment.

“The governor has expressed his appreciation to the residents of the state capital and to people all across the state for their support and cooperation with security agents.

“While urging continue to support the security efforts and to pray to Almighty Allah (SWT) for the return of peace and security.”

Meanwhile, there is heavy security presence around the town. Though the situation remained calm as at the time of filing this report, a source told TheCable that there was the belief that the insurgents were still within Damaturu.

“We stopped hearing exchange of gunfire around 5pm yesterday and soldiers are patrolling everywhere,” the source said.

“But from the way these people normally operate, we believe that they are still around.”

Suspected Boko Haram insurgents laid siege to the state capital for most parts of Monday until the military overpowered them.