Jos: Curfew imposed after Palpable tension following Biafra – Hausa Stand-off, Lalong expresses dismay

News reaching the ViewPointNigeria news desks indicates that significant tension and clashes were witnessed around Ahmadu Bellow way and Rwang Pam streets of Jos earlier this evening.

The events follow, the military onslaughts against supporters of the Indigenous people of Biafra (IPOB), which happened today in Abia state. These events were said to have significantly irked may Igbos into staging a mini-protests, which was met with high handed resistance from the Hausa-Fulani communities in the area, leading to mini-skirmishes and brawls.

But for the security agencies, who were on hand, the situation would have been significantly worse. However, police and soldiers swung into action and quickly quelled the menace.

This is happening at a time, when tensions are still high in Jos, stemming from the killing of 19 people in Ancha Village of Bassa LGA by herdsmen in a guerilla attack on the 8th of Septmeber 2017.

Reacting to thia evening’s incident, the governor – through his Director of Press and Media affairs released the following statement:

Governor of Plateau State has expressed great dismay and shock at the sudden build up of tension in Jos Metropolis on account of the conduct of some disgruntled elements, who have decided to throw the metropolis into confusion on account of their negative reaction to the agitations of Independent People of Biafra (IPOB) in the South East.

This was contained in a press statement signed by Samuel, Emmanuel Nanle Director, Press & Public Affairs and made available to newsmen in Jos on Thursday. The statement reads that Consequently, the Governor has directed an immediate imposition of curfew from dusk to dawn (6pm – 6am) within the Greater Jos – Bukuru Metropolis, until further notice.

The deployment of security personnel to all flash points within the metropolis has also been directed to ensure compliance with the curfew order and to avert any further breach of law and order. The Governor wishes to assure all citizens that the security and welfare as the primary concern of Government is assured by the Rescue Administration. He is therefore enjoining all citizens to go about their business with the assurance that their safety is guaranteed. He further appealed to all religious and community leaders, neighbourhood vigilantes as well as all law abiding citizens to ensure nobody is allowed to take advantage of this unfortunate situation to engage in criminality.

The Governor wishes to restate that Plateau State remains home to all citizens of Nigeria irrespective of religion, ethnic extraction or political persuasion. enjoins all peace loving citizens to ensure that nothing is allowed to upset the hard earned peace in the State.

He therefore enjoins all peace loving citizens to ensure that nothing is allowed to upset the hard earned peace in the State.