Residents of Taraba State have been thrown into panic following the sudden imposition of a dusk-to-dawn curfew in several parts of the state, coming just days after similar security tensions rocked Oyo State, Daily Trust reports.
The Taraba State Government, through the Office of the Governor, announced the curfew in Jalingo metropolis and some volatile local government areas effective immediately. The measure, according to authorities, is aimed at forestalling any breakdown of law and order amid rising intelligence reports of planned attacks and cult-related violence.
Many residents woke up to the shocking announcement, triggering fear and confusion across the state. Markets closed early, schools were shut down abruptly, and heavy vehicular movement was recorded as people rushed to stock up on essential commodities.
“This one don pass Oyo level o,” said a worried resident who identified himself as Mallam Usman. “After the panic in Oyo, now Taraba? We don’t even know what is happening. Our children cannot go to school, businesses are collapsing. Government should tell us the real reason.”
Another resident, Mrs. Rebecca Joseph, lamented: “We are tired of living in fear. Every time there is a security threat, it is the poor masses that suffer. We want to know who is behind this unrest.”
Security sources revealed that the curfew became necessary following credible intelligence about imminent threats from bandits. Joint operatives of the military, police, and other security agencies have been heavily deployed to strategic locations.
The Taraba State Commissioner of Police assured residents that the situation is under control and urged full compliance with the curfew, warning that violators would be arrested and prosecuted.
The development has heightened anxiety across the North-East region, with many drawing comparisons to the recent Oyo scare. Residents are calling on the Federal Government to step in and address the root causes of insecurity before the situation escalates further.
As the curfew takes full effect, many are praying for a swift return to normalcy. This is a developing story.
Stay safe and adhere to security directives in Taraba State.
