By Fredrick Wright
Edo State Government has imposed a 24-hour curfew in the state, moments after hoodlums invaded a prison facility on Benin-Sapele road and set inmates free.
The State Governor, Godwin Obaseki shared on his Twitter page that: “The Edo State government hereby imposes a 24-hour curfew across the state till further notice. The curfew is to take effect from 4pm, today, October 19, 2020,”
Also, the Secretary to the State government, Osarodion Ogie, in a statement said the curfew would be effective from 4:00 pm, October 19, 2020 till further notice. He added that hoodlums have hijacked the #EndSARS protest and the government would not allow such attacks.
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.
“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.”
Three police stations were also attacked by thugs in Edo on Monday, October 19.
