The Plateau State Government has declared a 24-hour curfew on the Jos/Bukuru metropolis to prevent any breakdown of law and order. This decisive action follows recent activities by hoodlums who looted shops in parts of Jos, the state capital. Governor Caleb Mutfwang announced the curfew late Sunday night, effective from midnight on August 4, 2024.
The curfew aims to enhance the security of lives and maintain public order in the Jos/Bukuru area. Governor Mutfwang, after consulting with state security agencies, decided to impose the curfew following the actions of unscrupulous individuals who exploited a nationwide protest to unleash terror on innocent citizens. These criminals, armed with daggers, machetes, and other dangerous weapons, broke into shops and restaurants along Bauchi Road and Zololo Junction in Jos, looting foodstuffs and other valuable items.
Governor Mutfwang emphasized that the curfew is in the best interest of all citizens and urged everyone to comply fully to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents. He directed security agencies in the state to enforce the curfew across the Jos/Bukuru metropolis. He also warned those planning further terror to desist immediately or face the full wrath of the law.
The Governor expressed gratitude to the citizens of the state for their unwavering support of the government’s policies and programs. He commended the peaceful conduct of the people before, during, and after the nationwide protest, urging everyone to continue upholding this culture of peace. “The peaceful conduct of our people before, during, and after the nationwide protest is commendable. I urge everyone to continue to uphold this culture of peace as we work together to build a united and progressive Plateau,” Mutfwang stated.
The decision to impose the curfew came after a series of security breaches in the Jos/Bukuru area. Hoodlums took advantage of the nationwide protest to engage in criminal activities, including looting and vandalism. These actions prompted the state government to act swiftly to prevent further chaos and restore order.
Residents of Jos/Bukuru woke up to the news of the curfew with mixed reactions. While some expressed relief, others voiced concerns about the potential impact on their daily lives. Business owners in the affected areas are particularly worried about the economic implications. However, many understand the necessity of the curfew to ensure public safety and prevent further violence.
Security agencies have been deployed across the Jos/Bukuru metropolis to enforce the curfew and prevent any further disturbances. The state government has assured residents that these measures are temporary and will be lifted as soon as it is safe to do so. In the meantime, residents are advised to stay indoors and comply with the curfew regulations.
The imposition of the curfew highlights the challenges faced by the Plateau State Government in maintaining law and order amid widespread unrest. The nationwide protest, initially intended to address various socio-economic issues, has unfortunately been marred by acts of violence and criminality. This has placed additional pressure on state authorities to implement measures that safeguard the lives and properties of citizens.
Governor Mutfwang’s administration has pledged to address the root causes of the unrest and work towards long-term solutions that promote peace and stability in the region. The government is also calling on community leaders and civil society organizations to support its efforts in fostering dialogue and reconciliation among different groups in the state.
