Borno Eases Curfew to Allow Muslims to Attend Juma’at Prayers: A Welcome Shift in Policy

Babatunji Wusu –

The Borno State Government, along with security agencies, has announced a temporary easing of the curfew to allow Muslims to attend Friday (Jumaat) prayers.

Assistant Superintendent of Police Daso Nahun shared this information in a statement issued in Maiduguri on Friday. According to Nahun, the curfew will be lifted from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. to enable Muslims to participate in Jumaat prayers at local mosques. After 3 p.m., the curfew will resume and remain in effect until 6 a.m. on Saturday.

Nahun advised residents to conduct their activities peacefully and avoid any violence. He assured the public that their safety and property would be protected as efforts continue to maintain peace and security in the state.

This decision follows a series of incidents in the state, including protests, IED explosions, and homicides. The government and security agencies are focused on upholding law and order to ensure public safety.

Previously, the Borno State Police Command had imposed a 24-hour curfew due to nationwide hunger protests. This measure came after protesters in Bulunkutu, Maiduguri, clashed with police who used tear gas to disperse them. The protesters had set up roadblocks, damaged vehicles, and chanted anti-government slogans.

One protester, Muhammad, stated that neither tear gas nor gunshots would stop them from exercising their right to protest.

In response, Police Spokesperson Nahum Kenneth Daso explained that the curfew was imposed due to security concerns and a recent bomb explosion. Daso urged residents to stay calm and law-abiding during this period.