The Edo State government led by Governor Godwin Obaseki has declared a 24 hours curfew in the state after violence erupted amid jailbreaks in Benin.
NAIJA NEWS NG reports that Osarodion Ogie, secretary to the state government revealed that the curfew takes effect by 4 PM on Monday 19 2020 till further notice.
The statement read;
“The curfew is to take effect from 4pm, October 19, 2020. This decision has become necessary because of the very disturbing incidents of vandalism and attacks on private individuals and institutions by hoodlums in the guise of #ENDSARS protesters.
“The curfew is to take effect from 4pm, October 19, 2020. This decision has become necessary because of the very disturbing incidents of vandalism and attacks on private individuals and institutions by hoodlums in the guise of #ENDSARS protesters.”
The Obaseki led government recognized that the people have the right to undertake peaceful protests but has decided to shutdown movement in the state so as to restore order.
“While the government of Edo State respects the rights of its citizens to undertake legitimate protests, it cannot sit idly when hoodlums have taken laws into their hands to cause mayhem on innocent citizens and the state.
“By the directive, schools and businesses are to shut down activities accordingly. Those who cannot move safely are to stay put between now and 4pm till calmness is restored.
“Parents are advised to rein in their children, youths and wards, to forestall further breakdown of law and order.
“The responsibility of government is to protect lives and property and maintain law and order, therefore, anyone found outside in violation of the curfew would be dealt with according to the law.”
