10th January, 2012
Protest against the removal of oil subsidy has taken another dimension as hoodlums have hijacked the protest by unleashing terror on the residents of Ibadan, capital of Oyo State, Southwest Nigeria.
Consequently, the state government has imposed curfew in the state.
The hoodlums started breaking into people’s houses as they forcefully collect belongings of the helpless ones.
Information revealed that the hoodlums operated in Oke-Aremo Area of Ibadan where they freely robbed and beat people who did not have anything to offer them.
Immediately the state government declared 7pm to 7am curfew, the thugs went on the rampage wielding dangerous weapons and singing that they are ready to confront security operatives who want to prevent them from operating.
They wielded UTC axe, cutlasses, guns, clubs and other dangerous items.
Security operatives comprising soldiers and policemen have taken over the city.
They firstly went round the ancient city showing their strength.
As at the time of filing this report, they are virtually everywhere especially the trouble spots.
According to a statement signed by the Senior Special Adviser on Media, Dr. Festus Adedayo, the state government has declared a 12-hour curfew in the state with immediate effect.
According to the state government, “the curfew would take effect from 7pm to 7am. The curfew became necessary to protect the lives of the people of the state.”
He noted that some hoodlums and miscreants, under the sponsorship of some politicians, had been hiding under the present anti-fuel subsidy removal protest to threaten the security of the state, especially at night.
According to the statement, government has instructed security agencies in the state to apprehend and prosecute anyone who contravenes the curfew.
“While the government appreciates the rights of the citizens to protest, the protection of lives and property of citizens is imperative,” the statement added.
—Gbenro Adesina/Ibadan