Maximum security in place to protect lives, property – Lalong

Maximum security measures have been put in place to protect lives and property in Plateau in the face of escalating tension, Gov. Simon Lalong has assured.

The governor gave the assurance on Friday in Jos at a stakeholders meeting with traditional, religious and security chiefs in the state.

Two persons were confirmed dead on Thursday in Jos-Bukuru metropolis as a result of tension generated by agitations for secession by some members of the Independent People of Biafra (IPOB).

Lalong told the meeting that the government was compelled by the killings and tension to declare dusk-to-down (6pm-6am) curfew.

He warned that government would not tolerate any act of lawlessness from any person or group of persons under whatever guise.

He said that government had made its position clear about IPOB and quit notice to people from the South-East.

“We said that there is no reason for anybody to declare a nation in the country and there is no reason for any group to give quit notice to any group.

“What happened yesterday is quite unfortunate and we must find quick solution to it.

“My duty as governor is to protect everybody doing his lawful business and paying tax in Plateau; any loss of life is a great loss to Plateau.

“Nobody has any right to chase anybody out of Plateau,” the governor added.

While stressing that he does not derive pleasure in imposing the curfew, the governor warned that tougher measures would be taken if the people refused to cooperate.

He appealed to community and religious leaders to work closely with the government to fish out those responsible for the mischief orchestrated by social media.

“Be very sincere in taking control of your people and assist us in finding the perpetrators who will not go scot free as nobody is above the law.

“If you have a hint of security breach in your area, please alert government because we need information from you.

“Don’t allow anybody to take laws into his or her hands,” Lalong said.

Our correspondent reports that the Minister of Interior, Gen. Abdulrahman Danbazau is in Plateau state to assess the situation.