Plateau killings: Lalong relaxes curfew in Jos North

Simon Lalong, Plateau state governor, has relaxed the 24-hour curfew imposed on Jos North LGA.

This decision was announced after a security council meeting, which was held at the government house on Wednesday.

The curfew was declared on Sunday after Muslim worshippers, who were on their way from Bauchi, were attacked in Jos, the Plateau capital.

More than 20 travellers were killed during the attack which occurred on Saturday, while several others sustained injuries.

After receiving briefings from the heads of security agencies and reviewing the situation, the governor announced that the curfew will be observed from 6pm to 6am daily, beginning from Thursday.

According to a statement by Makut Macham, spokesperson to the governor, Lalong said the the new arrangement will also cover Bassa and Jos South LGAs, until further notice.

The governor also warned against attacks that would threaten lives and properties of citizens, adding that perpetrators of crime will be made to face the law.

“In relaxing the curfew, Governor Simon Lalong warned trouble makers to desist from threatening lives and properties of citizens or be ready for a showdown with security forces who have been directed to be tough with anyone causing a breach of the peace,” the statement reads.

“He expressed outrage over what he called the desperation of criminals bent on causing mayhem in the State, as there were isolated attacks which led to loss of lives and destruction of properties in some areas of Jos North and Bassa LGAs during the curfew.

“While the curfew is relaxed in Jos North, security agencies will mount permanent checkpoints in highly vulnerable areas; deploy more uniform and plainclothes personnel, and also observe the conduct of citizens round the clock.

“The Governor also reiterated that the prohibition on processions was still in force and anyone found violating the order will be dealt with according to the law.

“The Governor appreciated the cooperation of law-abiding citizens and urged them to continue to support Government to deal with the situation and restore normalcy to the affected areas and the State at large.

“He urged parents and community leaders to prevail on their wards to maintain peace as the Government does not want to be forced to always resort to curfews which affect the economy and freedom of the people and the State as a whole.”