The Kaduna State Government has announced a relaxation of the 24-hour curfew previously imposed on the metropolitan cities of Kaduna and Zaria, following a careful assessment of the prevailing security situation.
This new directive, set to take effect from Thursday, August 8, 2024, allows residents to move freely between the hours of 8 am and 6 pm daily. The curfew, however, will remain in effect from 6 pm to 8 am, during which time movement will be strictly restricted.
This decision was communicated by the Kaduna State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Samuel Aruwan, who noted that the move was the result of a thorough review conducted by the state Security Council.
The Council, under the leadership of Governor Uba Sani, met to deliberate on the security situation in Kaduna and Zaria and unanimously agreed that the circumstances had improved sufficiently to warrant a partial relaxation of the curfew.
The imposition of the curfew on Monday, August 4, 2024, was a response to escalating tensions and concerns about potential violence in these key urban areas. The 24-hour curfew was deemed necessary at the time to prevent any further breakdown of law and order, and to allow security forces to restore calm. In the days since, security agencies have been working tirelessly to stabilize the situation, which has now led to the easing of restrictions.
According to the Commissioner, the Security Council’s decision reflects its commitment to balancing public safety with the need to allow citizens to engage in their daily activities.
By adjusting the curfew hours, the government aims to provide residents with the opportunity to carry out their legitimate business during daylight hours while still maintaining a robust security posture during the night.
However, Commissioner Aruwan emphasized that while the curfew has been relaxed, it is by no means lifted. The hours between 6 pm and 8 am remain under strict curfew, and security forces have been directed to enforce these restrictions vigorously.
The Commissioner warned that any actions that threaten to disrupt the peace or lead to a resurgence of violence will be met with decisive force. He urged residents to adhere strictly to the new curfew schedule and cooperate fully with security personnel to ensure the continued safety of all.
The state government, through its Security Council, reiterated its unwavering commitment to the peace and security of Kaduna State. The Council assured residents that it will continue to monitor the situation closely and will take all necessary measures to preserve the hard-won stability. This includes not only enforcing the curfew but also addressing any underlying issues that could potentially lead to unrest.
Residents of Kaduna and Zaria are encouraged to use the hours of unrestricted movement wisely, ensuring that they complete their daily activities well before the curfew begins at 6 pm.
The government also reminded the public of the importance of staying informed about any further updates or changes to the curfew schedule, as these will be communicated through official channels.
In addition to enforcing the curfew, security forces will also be on high alert for any signs of trouble during the hours when movement is allowed. This proactive approach is intended to prevent any incidents before they can escalate, and to reassure the public that their safety remains a top priority for the government.
The relaxation of the curfew is seen as a positive development, signaling a return to a semblance of normalcy in Kaduna and Zaria. However, the government has made it clear that this is a cautious step, and the situation remains fluid.
The Security Council’s decision to adjust the curfew hours is based on current assessments, but the government stands ready to reinstate stricter measures if the security situation deteriorates.
In conclusion, while the relaxation of the curfew provides much-needed relief to the residents of Kaduna and Zaria, the government has stressed that the cooperation of the public is crucial in maintaining peace.
The state government, led by Governor Uba Sani, remains committed to ensuring that the region does not slip back into unrest, and it will continue to work closely with security agencies to protect the lives and properties of its citizens.
