‘Security situation has improved’ — Rivers lifts curfew after two months

Nyesom Wike, governor of Rivers, has lifted the curfew imposed on the state as part of efforts to address insecurity.

The governor had announced a dusk-to-dawn curfew in all LGAs in April, following repeated attacks on security agents in the southern region.

Speaking during a broadcast on Tuesday, Wike said the decision to reverse the curfew was taken as a result of the improved security situation in the state.

“My dear people of Rivers state. In response to the security breaches and premeditate attacks and killing of security officers in some of our neighbouring states by gunmen we imposed a night-time curfew on our land borders with other states on the 28th of April, 2021,” he said.

“Following the premediated attack and killing of some security personnel in Abua and Ikwerre local government areas by gunmen, we were forced to impose a statewide curfew from 10pm to 6am.

“On the 11th of May, 2021, the gunmen defied the existing curfew and carried out yet another murderous attack and killing of some security personnel in the state. This prompted the review of the statewide curfew from 7pm to 6.00am.

“Then, on the 16th of May, 2021 the existing curfew timeframe was readjusted to 8:30pm to 6am for Port Harcourt and Obio/Akpor local government areas only. As we have reiterated severally, we understand the extremity of these measures, especially their negative impact on business and the social-economic wellbeing of the state and its residents.

“However, in taking these measures, our primary concern and interest was and still remains the security of the state and no sacrifice or price can be said to be too much to endure for the preservation of lives and property.

“And as we have severally stated, the curfew is not going to last a day beyond necessary. Consequently, sequel to the measurable improvements in the security situation in the state, as well as in our neighbouring states, we have decided to lift the existing curfew on the entire state from tomorrow, 7th July, 2021.

“While we thank you for your understanding and cooperation during this trying period, we must all remain security conscious and report any suspicious situation to the security agencies for action.”

Wike added that his administration will “not fail to deploy every resource at our disposal to ensure the safety of lives and property while advancing the wellbeing of all residents”.