(http://peoplesdailyng.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/bomb_kaduna-curfew-300x181.jpg) (http://peoplesdailyng.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/bomb_kaduna-curfew.jpg)From Mustapha Isah Kwaru, Maiduguri, Umar Dankano, Yola & Joy Baba, Abuja
Residents of Maiduguri, the Borno state capital , and environs heaved a sigh of relief yesterday with normal life gradually returning as operatives of the Joint Military Task Force, (JTF) reopened several roads and streets, earlier blocked following the imposition of the 24-hour curfew imposed in some areas.
Residents of the town were earlier traumatized by biting effects of the curfew imposed by the military authorities since last Saturday, groaning under intense sufferings, due to acute shortage of food-stuffs and other assorted commodities.
However, our correspondent reported that the situation was quite impressive yesterday as residents of the curfew-imposed areas got a little bit freedom of movement between 7am to 5pm, as against the initial 24-hour restriction of movements.
It was gathered that the military resolved to relax the curfew following the rising outcry from all quarters over its negative effects inflicted on the residents. Some of the affected areas, which were hitherto deserted, with no single socio-economic activity, have now become beehive of activities, with shops, markets and other commercial centres opened.
Similarly, the Yobe state government has announced a review of the curfew imposed on the area.
A Government House press statement yesterday explained that in view of the need to sustain the relative peace that all parts of the state currently enjoy, Governor Ibrahim Gaidam, approved an adjustment of the hours during which public movement is restricted around the state.
Consequently, according to the statement, restriction on movement starts from 6.00 pm to 6.00 am daily throughout the state with effect from yesterday.
According to the statement signed by the Governor's Special Adviser on Press Affairs and Information, Abdullahi Bego, "the decision for this adjustment follows a meeting that His Excellency the Governor had with heads of law enforcement agencies in the state.
"His Excellency urges the general public to continue with the exemplary support and cooperation with security agents to ensure lasting peace in the state.
"His Excellency the governor also urges the public not to relent in prayers to the Almighty Allah for the restoration of peace in the state and the country in general."
Meanwhile, the Defence Headquarters, Abuja has debunked speculations that residents of Maiduguri metropolis and its environs are fleeing to neighboring Niger Republic.
This was contained in a press statement signed by the Director of Defence Information (DDI) Brig. Gen Chris Olukolade.
The statement also said the photographs used in most media to depict fleeing resident are questionable as they do not reflect any related reality of the social or geographical environment of the state.
The DDI further disclosed that 120 insurgents were arrested while trying to organize burial of one of their commanders who died in an encounter with the Special Forces the previous day.
"The arrested insurgents are in the custody of the Joint Task Force where they are being interrogated," the Army Chief stated.
According to the DDI, terrorist fleeing towards Chad and Niger Republic are being contained as they have had understanding with the Multi-National Joint Task Force in various locations towards the border adding that advancing troops have also observed a few shallow graves believed to be those of hurriedly buried members of the insurgent groups.
Olukolade in the statement further said the Special Task Forces have now secured the environs of New Marte, Hausari, Krenoa, Wulgo and Chikun Ngulalo after destroying all the terrorist camps sited in the vicinities of these localities
No fewer two hundred troops have arrived Adamawa state to effect the implementation of the state of emergency slammed on the state even as more are expected to move in from neighbouring Yobe state.
Addressing the troops at the 23rd Armoured Brigade Headquarters in Yola yesterday, Brigade Commander Brig. Fatai Oladifo Alli, who is also the operational officer, urged the soldiers to be disciplined and observe decorum.
He charged the ranks and file of the troops deployed in the state to abide by rules of engagement. "You are on national assignment that you should be cautious to avoid any act that could tarnish the image of the Nigerian army. As gallant soldiers, you are expected to be disciplined and show sense of professionalism while discharging the assignment," he said.
While assuring the people of the state that the soldiers will not go out of the track during the operations, Alli however noted that the residents are cooperating with the Army and that there is improvement in security situation of the state.
"I can assure you that as soon things improve, the curfew could be reviewed and I hope people will continue to be law abiding and assist with useful information that could assist in tracking suspects," the Brigade commander said.
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