#EndSARS: Akwa Ibom governor extends curfew

THE need to protect lives and property of residents of Akwa Ibom has prompted Governor Udom Emmanuel to extend the statewide curfew which would now end 7am tomorrow, October 24.

The curfew had been slated to end at noon today.

In a statement signed by the Commissioner for information and Strategy, the governor said “due to developing situations being monitored by the state government and security agencies and the inevitable need to protect citizens and property, based on overriding public interest, Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Udom Emmanuel has extended the curfew, which was initially due to expire by noon of 23rd October, 2020 till 7am on Saturday, October 24.”

According to the governor, the curfew is statewide, and the shutdown “will involve a total cessation of movement, except for those on essential duties, who must show a proper identification. All law abiding citizens are advised to remain at home, as security agencies have been briefed to strictly enforce this order.”

Meanwhile, Speaker Aniekan Bassey has condemned Thursday evening killing of #EndSARS protesters in Uyo. He also deplored the wanton destruction of public and private properties by hoodlums under the guise of #EndSARS protests.

”On behalf of the leadership and members of the Seventh Assembly, I join millions of Nigerians to condemn the killing of innocent and unarmed youths who were exercising their constitutional right to protest and demand for good governance and better life,” Udom said.

He condemned, in strong terms, the act of intimidating of his people, destroying and burning of public and private properties in parts of Uyo, looting of business premises and other acts of criminality perpetrated by hoodlums in the guise of #EndSARS protest.

”These were not parts of the demands of the #EndSARS protest and will only worsen our woes. There were avoidable tragedies if Mr. President had addressed the concerns of the youths early enough. I deeply sympathise with families of the slain heroes and pray for speedy recovery of those who sustained injuries in the course of the peaceful protest. My heart is also with those who lost material possessions, buildings and businesses. I charge the youths to exercise restraint and allow measures put in place by government to prevail. Please give peace a chance while making your legitimate demands. We cannot afford to support more losses,” he said.