Zulum lifts curfew as business owners lament low patronage

Babagana Zulum, Borno State governor, has lifted the curfew imposed following the protests that hit the city where about four people reportedly died and several others wounded.

The government last Friday temporarily relaxed the curfew to allow Muslims observe the (Jumaat) prayers.

Zulum made an announcement in a statewide broadcast Friday evening while citing that the protest in the state was hijacked by hoodlums who made several attempts to destroy public infrastructure, but for the timely intervention of the military and other security agencies.

“It is unfortunate that some hoodlums hijacked the protest thereby causing havoc to lives and property which is unacceptable.

He sympathised with the families of the Kawuri bomb attack, saying that it was necessary to impose the curfew to avoid Boko Haram elements taking advantage to create havoc in the state.

“As the curfew is now lifted, government will not hesitate to deal ruthlessly with anyone who breaks down law and order in the name of protest,” he said.

Read also: Borno declares curfew as bomb blast, death trail hunger protest

He urged the residents to go about their normal activities, saying that the security of the state would not be compromised for any reason.

Business activities are proceeding smoothly in some streets visited but nevertheless, several traders have regretted a decline in sales as a result of the protest.

It was observed that business activity has not fully commenced in popular Monday Markets, while some stalls and establishments are still closed.

“Activities are slowly returning to normalcy after first day the curfew was lifted. Many people refused to open their shops, there is low patronage compared to what we used to experience at weekends,” Umaru Bandu, a trader along Bulumkutu Road, said.

Mohammed Kaomi, a business owner, lamented the low patronage and financial losses incurred during the protest.

“Business activities have resumed, but the impact of the protest is still being felt. Hopefully, things will change from Monday,” Mohammed said.