The Kaduna state Government has imposed a 24-hour curfew in Kafanchan, Jemaa Local Government Area, to avert unrest.
The curfew was imposed following a reported plan by some people to cause a breakdown of law and order in the area.
It was announced by Chairman of the council, Dr Bege Katuka.
This was caused a protest held on Monday morning by some indigenes of southern Kaduna to further draw attention of government to the constant killings of their people by suspected herdsmen.
Although the state government had on Sunday, December 17, banned all forms of procession and unlawful assembly, the protesters who are mainly youths, defied the order.
They took to the streets of Kafanchan as early as 8 am to demand for the arrest of perpetrators of the attacks that have claimed many lives.
Business activities were paralyzed due to the curfew while only the Police and other security agencies were seen patrolling the streets.
Scores of people have been killed during herdsmen attacks on farmers in communities in Sanga, Jemaa and Kaura local government areas of Kaduna state.
NAN reports that barely a few hours after the imposition of the curfew, normal human and vehicular movements as well as business premises were shut down.
The Interim Chairman of the council, Dr Bege Katuka, told NAN that the situation would last until the security situation improved.
“We want to ensure that relative calm was completely restored and unnecessary tension averted before a review of the curfew would be considered.
“We will continue to plead with especially our youths to conduct themselves within the provisions of the law and to not to engage in criminality.” He said
Katuka assured that adequate security had been mobilised to ensure normalcy returned to the area.
Meanwhile, residents of Kafanchan have decried the imposition of the curfew, describing the situation as unpleasant.
Mrs Joy Abun, a civil servant, said it was regrettable that the development was barely a few days before the Christmas festivity.
“This is when families get together with their loved ones and cook forward to the seasonal celebration, but with this ugly situation our people may not want to come home for the Christmas.” she said
Also, Mr Charles Briggs, a tailor who lamented the development, said he had assured his numerous customers of their clothes before the Christmas festivity.
“Eventually, I may disappoint many of my customers as I may not be able to meet up with their demand.” He said
Mr Gabriel Silas, a relaxation spot operator, told NAN that he immediately had to turn down his customers and close his premises in compliance with the government directives.
“When incidences like this occur, our losses are usually unimaginable.” He lamented
Reports revealed that the residents had ensured a total compliance of the curfew as they remained indoors.
NAN
