Obaseki Declares 24-hour Curfew In Edo State

Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State on Monday imposed a 24-hour curfew across the Edo state till further notice.

This was made known in a statement by the Secretary to the State Government, Osarodion Ogie Esq, on Monday.

Naija News reports that the curfew is to take effect from 4 pm, today, 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 statement said.

“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 shutdown 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.”

Recall that hoodlums had on Monday morning stormed the popular Oko prison in Sapele road, Benin City, to free some prisoners.