Security Council removes curfew in Kaduna after one week
By Austine Emmanuel, Kaduna
The Kaduna State Security Council has announced the complete removal of the curfew imposed on the state, effective immediately.
The curfew, initially set at 24 hours a day for Zaria and Kaduna metropolitan areas, was first implemented on August 5, 2024. It was later reviewed on August 8, allowing residents to conduct their legitimate activities between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. daily. This measure was introduced to address the youth-related violence and looting of public and private properties that occurred during the #EndBadGovernance protests in the state.
In a statement issued to the press in Kaduna on Tuesday, the Overseeing Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Samuel Aruwan, explained that the decision to lift the curfew entirely followed a thorough review of the security situation.
Aruwan indicated that while the curfew has been lifted, security forces will remain vigilant for any threats to public peace and will take legal action against individuals or groups that pose such threats through illegal activities or processions.
“Following a comprehensive review of the security situation in Kaduna and Zaria, and their surrounding areas, the Kaduna State Security Council, under the leadership of Governor Uba Sani, has decided to remove the curfew entirely. This change is effective immediately, as of today, Tuesday, August 13, 2024. With this development, law-abiding citizens are now free to move and engage in lawful activities throughout Kaduna and Zaria without restriction.
“The Security Council, after an extensive assessment conducted last night, unanimously recommended the removal of the curfew. The Council remains committed to ensuring the security and safety of all residents in Kaduna State.
“The Security Council also emphasised that any processions or gatherings must be coordinated with the relevant authorities to prevent disruptions to law and order and to maintain overall public safety.
“Furthermore, security forces will continue to monitor for any threats to public peace and will prosecute anyone or any group that poses such threats.
“Governor Sani, who presided over the briefing, praised the efforts of the security agencies, as well as religious and traditional leaders, and all other stakeholders who played a role in managing the aftermath of the protests in Kaduna and Zaria.
“The Governor assured these stakeholders of his ongoing commitment to inclusivity and engagement, aiming to foster peace, unity, and development throughout Kaduna State,” the statement read.
