Few hours after hoodlums broke into the Prison in Benin City, masked as #ENDSARS protester, and freed inmates, the Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki has imposed a 24 hours curfew across the state.
A statement by the Secretary to the State Government, Mr Osarodion Ogie said the curfew will take effect from 4 p.m. on Monday.
Ogie explained that “This decision has become necessary because of the very disturbing incidents of vandalism and attacks on private individuals and institutions by hoodlums in the guise of #ENDSARS protesters.
“While the government of Edo State respects the rights of its citizens to undertake legitimate protests, it cannot sit idly when hoodlums have taken laws into their hands to cause mayhem on innocent citizens and the state.
“By the directive, schools and businesses are to shut down activities accordingly. Those who cannot move safely are to stay put between now and 4pm till calmness is restored.
“Parents are advised to rein in their children, youths and wards, to forestall further breakdown of law and order.
“The responsibility of government is to protect lives and property and maintain law and order. Therefore, anyone found outside in violation of the curfew would be dealt with according to the law.”
Reports from Benin say the hoodlums attacked the prisons and broke a part of the fence after engaging armed guards in a gun battle.
According to reports, the hoodlums started gathering along Sapele Road beside the prison as early as 7.am, setting bonfires and turning back road users.
