Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has declared a 24-hour curfew in Jos and Bukuru metropolis following incidents of looting and violence in the Bauchi Road community and Zolo Junction.
The curfew, which commenced at midnight on Sunday, August 4, 2024, aims to restore order and protect citizens from escalating unrest.
In a statement signed by Gyang Bere, the governor’s Director of Press and Public Affairs, Governor Mutfwang stated that criminal elements had exploited nationwide protests to wreak havoc on innocent residents.
Shops and restaurants were broken into, and valuable items, including foodstuffs, were looted.
“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 ensure the total enforcement of the curfew across the Jos/Bukuru Metropolis,” the statement read.
The governor urged those planning further violence to desist immediately or face severe consequences.
He also called on security agencies to remain vigilant and proactive in maintaining law and order.
Governor Mutfwang thanked the citizens of Plateau State, particularly religious leaders, for their support and adherence to directives during the nationwide protest.
He commended the peaceful conduct of residents and encouraged continued cooperation to build a united and progressive Plateau State.
Reports from the News Agency of Nigeria indicate that the initially peaceful protests were hijacked by criminal elements, leading to looting and attacks on civilians.
Armed groups wielding weapons such as daggers and machetes have targeted businesses and individuals, particularly along Bauchi Road and Zololo Junction in Jos North Local Government Area.
Governor Mutfwang’s statement stressed that the curfew is essential for protecting lives and preserving public order.
He assured residents that the measure was in the community’s best interest and directed security forces to enforce the curfew strictly.
The imposition of the curfew highlights the urgent need for stability in Plateau State as the government addresses the challenges posed by the ongoing civil unrest.
This is not the first time a curfew has been declared in Jos. On June 10, 2024, Mutfwang lifted a curfew imposed on the Mangu Local Government Area in January.
The curfew followed a violent attack by bandits in the Pushit and Sabon-Gari communities, resulting in 13 deaths and the destruction of several homes.
Mutfwang lifted the Mangu curfew after consultations with the State Security Council confirmed that normalcy had been restored, allowing residents to resume agricultural and economic activities.
The governor acknowledged community leaders’ efforts in fostering dialogue and understanding among different faith and ethnic groups, reiterating his administration’s commitment to fairness and justice for all citizens.
Amid the current unrest, a coalition of youths in Plateau State announced the suspension of their 10-day protest against economic hardship.
The protests, set to resume after two days of dialogue with the Federal Government, denounced the use of the Russian flag during demonstrations, emphasising that it does not represent the views of the protesters.
John Enoch Vilret, the spokesman of the coalition, stated, “The Jos End Bad Governance Protest 2024 coalition announces the suspension of our protest for two days, effective immediately from Monday to Tuesday, 6th August 2024.
“This decision has been made to allow for dialogue with relevant authorities, as stated by the President of the Federation in his speech today.
“We remain committed to our cause and are hopeful that this period will facilitate constructive discussions.”
Vilret clarified that the coalition leaders are committed to peaceful advocacy and urged security forces to arrest anyone engaging in looting or vandalism.
He emphasised that their primary aim is to guide and support the voices of their fellow citizens responsibly and constructively.
