Worried that there may be a clash between members of the Igbo and the Hausa communities in Jos, Governor Simon Lalong on Thursday, declared indefinite dusk-to-dawn curfew in the capital.
The decision was as a result of palpable tension in the Jos Metropolis, which was fuelled by speculation of an impending attacks by some northerners.
According to a statement by the Director of Press and Public Affairs, Mr Emmanuel Nanle Samuel, said the curfew was occasioned by “the sudden buildup of tension in Jos to 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.
“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 statement read in part.
“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.”
While appealing to religious and community leaders to be vigilant, Governor Lalong assured all citizens of their safety and asked them to go about their activities without fear.