The Borno State Government and security agencies have announced a temporary relaxation of the curfew imposed in the state to allow Muslims to observe the Friday (Juma’at) congregational prayers.
The curfew will be relaxed from 12 pm to 3 pm to enable Muslims to attend the Juma’at prayers at mosques closer to their communities.
According to Assistant Superintendent of Police Daso Nahun, the curfew will continue to be enforced from 3 pm today, Friday, to 6 am on Saturday. He advised residents to go about their lawful business and avoid any form of violence.
Nahun assured the public of adequate protection of lives and property, working towards sustainable peace and safety in the state. He stated:
“This decision comes after a series of incidents in the state, including protests, IED explosions, and culpable homicide. The government and security agencies are working to maintain law and order and ensure public safety.”
The Borno State Police Command had earlier imposed a 24-hour curfew amid the nationwide hunger protest, which turned violent in some areas. Protesters mounted roadblocks, preventing vehicular movement and breaking windscreens of vehicles that insisted on passing.
One of the protesters, Muhammad, said:
“We want the world to know the kind of injustice meted against us by the police. They shoot teargas at us while conducting our peaceful protest and that would not deter us.”
Reacting to the development, State Police Command Spokesperson Nahum Kenneth Daso said:
“The curfew was declared in the interest of peace and we urge residents of the state to remain calm and law-abiding.”
