The Plateau State Police Command has introduced a series of security measures to ensure a peaceful Christmas and New Year celebration.
The restrictions, which will affect five Local Government Areas (LGAs), are set to run from December 23, 2024, to January 3, 2025.
The affected LGAs are Barkin Ladi, Bassa, Mangu, Riyom, and Bokkos.
According to Mr Emmanuel Adesina, the Police Commissioner in Plateau, the restrictions are aimed at curbing potential criminal activities during the festive season.
He said the curfew would be in force from 6:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. daily throughout the affected areas.
“The command, after consulting with critical stakeholders, has decided to impose these restrictions,” Adesina told journalists in Jos.
Night grazing by herders, night farming, and mining activities have been prohibited during this period.
The Police have also banned the night operation of drinking joints and commercial motorcycles, commonly referred to as okada.
Adesina added that commercial tricycles, popularly known as Keke Napep, would not operate within the Jos-Bukuru metropolis on December 25, December 26, and January 1, 2025.
These measures, he explained, were necessary to ensure a hitch-free festive season.
Security Concerns in Plateau State
Plateau State has experienced significant security challenges in recent years.
The state has been a hotspot for communal clashes, banditry, and other forms of criminal activity.
The targeted LGAs are particularly known for their history of violence, including farmer-herder conflicts and attacks by armed groups.
During the yuletide season, such conflicts often escalate, as communities gather for celebrations and economic activities increase.
Night grazing, a frequent point of contention between herders and farmers, has previously led to violent clashes.
Illegal mining, especially in Bassa and Barkin Ladi, has also been linked to the activities of armed groups.
By restricting these activities, the Police aim to reduce the risk of violence and ensure public safety.
Police Deployment Across Plateau
Adesina revealed that officers had been deployed to all 17 LGAs in the state.
He stated that the deployment was part of a broader strategy to maintain law and order throughout Plateau during the celebrations.
“We have mobilised our personnel across the state to ensure the safety of lives and property,” Adesina said.
He urged residents to cooperate with security agencies by adhering to the restrictions.
The Commissioner also called on the public to report suspicious movements or activities to the nearest security office.
Impact on Residents and Businesses
The restrictions are likely to affect daily life in the affected areas.
Residents who rely on night-time economic activities, such as farming or operating drinking joints, may experience disruptions.
The ban on commercial tricycles in Jos and Bukuru on key festive days is also expected to impact transportation within the metropolis.
However, some residents have expressed support for the measures, citing the need for enhanced security during the festive period.
A resident of Jos, Mr Joseph Gwom, said, “We understand that these measures may inconvenience us, but it is for our safety. We have seen what happens when security is not prioritised during celebrations.”
Others, however, have raised concerns about how the restrictions will affect their livelihoods.
Mrs Hauwa Gyang, who runs a small shop in Bassa, said, “The curfew means I cannot sell during the evenings, which is when most customers come. I hope the Police consider how this affects small business owners.”
Authorities Call for Vigilance
The Police Commissioner has appealed to residents to remain vigilant and security conscious.
He urged communities to report any unusual activities or movements in their areas.
“Security is everyone’s responsibility. We need the cooperation of all residents to ensure a peaceful celebration,” Adesina said.
He assured the public that the Police would respond swiftly to any reported threats or emergencies.
Background on Festive Season Security
In Nigeria, the yuletide season often sees an increase in criminal activities.
Many individuals travel to their hometowns, leaving urban centres temporarily less populated.
This shift creates opportunities for criminal elements to exploit unguarded properties and engage in theft, robbery, or attacks.
The Plateau State Government has in the past introduced similar measures to address these challenges.
During the 2023 festive season, a partial curfew was imposed in Jos, leading to a significant reduction in reported incidents of violence.
The restrictions on commercial motorcycles and tricycles are also not new.
In recent years, such bans have been implemented in response to concerns about their use in criminal operations.
