Yobe State Eases Midnight Curfew for Ramadan Observance

The Yobe State Government has officially lifted the midnight curfew, a move intended to facilitate the peaceful observance of the holy month of Ramadan for all residents, especially its Muslim population. This decision was communicated to the press by the Special Adviser to the governor on Security Matters, Brigadier General Dahiru Abdulsalam (Rtd), after a crucial security council meeting led by the State Deputy Governor, Hon. Idi Barde Gubana.

General Abdulsalam explained that the State Security Council deemed the curfew relaxation necessary to ensure that Muslims could engage in their religious practices throughout the fasting period without any restrictions. He stated that the council had thoroughly reviewed the security landscape across the state and had resolved to bolster preventive security measures during Ramadan.

He further elaborated that Ramadan is a period marked by various religious activities, such as sermons, educational sessions, communal prayers, iftar gatherings, and late-night prayers (Qiyamul Lail), many of which extend into the night, requiring the presence and vigilance of security personnel. The security meeting was convened precisely to assess and analyse the prevailing security situation, with the ultimate goal of ensuring citizens could observe the 30 days of Ramadan safely, with adequate protection for their lives and properties.

The Security Adviser also cautioned that during this period, certain criminal elements might attempt to exploit the situation by disguising themselves to carry out illegal activities. He urged the citizens of Yobe State to continue their cooperation with security agencies by providing actionable intelligence, which is vital for maintaining the current state of relative peace.

Additionally, Abdulsalam voiced concerns regarding illegal mining operations in the Gulani area of Gulani Local Government Area, assuring that security agencies are actively addressing the matter.