Governor Nyesom Wike lifts night curfew in Rivers State

 Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State has lifted the night curfew imposed on the state.

 

The Governor made the announcement during a state-wide broadcast on Tuesday, July 6, saying lifting of the curfew will take effect from Wednesday, July 7, 2021

Wike said the decision to lift the night curfew followed a “measurable improvement in the security situation of the state since the curfew was imposed on April 28.”

He explained that “As we have severally stated, the curfew was not going to last a day beyond necessary. Consequently, as a sequel to the measurable improvements in the security situation in the State as well as in our neighbouring States, we have decided to lift the existing curfew on the entire State from tomorrow 7th July 2021.

 

“On our part, we will not fail to deploy every resource at our disposal to ensure the safety of lives and property while advancing the wellbeing of all residents. This is the very reason we are clearing the State of shanties that have become veritable sanctuaries for criminals and criminal activities across the State. Clearly, our actions in this direction are not directed or targeted at any particular person, identity or group.”

The Governor explained that the state government had in response to the security breaches, premeditated attacks and killing of security officers in neighbouring States by gunmen, imposed a night-time curfew on the State land borders with other States on the 28th of April 2021.

“Following the premeditated attack and killing of some security personnel in Abua and Ikwerre Local Government Areas by gunmen, we were forced to impose a statewide curfew from 10.00 p.m. to 6.00 a.m.

“On the 11th of May 2021, the gunmen defied the existing curfew and carried out yet another murderous attack and killing of some security personnel in the State. This prompted the review of the statewide curfew from 7.00 pm to 6.00 a.m”, he stated.

The governor also thanked Rivers people for their understanding,
prayer and solidarity even as the government continues to work tirelessly to keep Rivers State safe and secure for all.