By Peter Omopo
The Governor of Adamawa State, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, has imposed a 24-hour curfew on Lamurde Local Government Area following renewed communal violence between the Chobo and Bachaman communities.
The directive was announced in a statement issued on Sunday night by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Humeashi Wonosikou, who said the curfew takes immediate effect.
According to the statement, the decision was taken after fresh attacks and breaches of peace were reported in several communities within the local government area.
“Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, has imposed a 24-hour curfew on Lamurde Local Government Area with immediate effect. This follows renewed violent attacks and breach of peace in some communities within the area,” the statement read.
The governor described the disturbances as unacceptable and directed security agencies to enforce the curfew strictly to restore order.
He warned that individuals or groups found violating the directive would be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
The curfew will remain in force until further notice as security agencies work to stabilise the situation and maintain law and order.
Residents of Lamurde Local Government Area were urged to comply with the curfew and cooperate with security agencies by providing useful information that could help restore peace.
Governor Fintiri reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property, stressing that the government would not tolerate acts of violence.
The latest curfew marks the fourth time in less than six months that the governor has imposed restrictions in the area due to the protracted conflict between the Chobo and Bachaman communities.
Earlier reports indicated that at least two people were killed before the curfew was announced, while further information suggested that four additional deaths occurred after Bachaman youths reportedly mobilised to defend their community.
Sources in Lamurde said the violence escalated as Bachaman youths allegedly attacked Chobo villages in retaliation.
The Adamawa State Police Command confirmed the crisis on Sunday afternoon, with its spokesman, SP Suleiman Nguroje, promising to provide further updates on the number of casualties.
The long-running communal clash between the Chobo and Bachaman communities has reportedly claimed more than 30 lives, particularly among women.
