#EndSARS: Edo govt declares 24-hour curfew

 

ADEMETO ADELEKAN, BENIN

THE Edo State Government has imposed a 24-hour curfew across the state.

The state government said the curfew, which will take effect from 4pm, October 19, 2020 (Monday), became necessary, owing to the very disturbing incidents of vandalism and attacks on private individuals and institutions by hoodlums in the guise of #EndSARS protesters.

The Point had earlier reported that many prisoners escaped on Monday morning in Benin City, as hoodlums reportedly attacked the correctional centre along Sapele Road.

In the process, it was learnt that many prisoners were set free, when the hoodlums reportedly overpowered the prison officials, and broke the walls to free the inmates.

In a press statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Osarodion Ogie, the Edo government said it would not sit idly and watch hoodlums cause mayhem in the state.

The statement, titled, ‘Edo govt declares 24-hour curfew’, said, “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.

“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.”