Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike has imposed curfew at all entry and exit points with neighbouring states of Abia, Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, and Imo.

Peoples Gazette learnt the curfew takes effect on Wednesday from 8:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m, until further notice.

Mr Wike, in a state broadcast on Tuesday, said the curfew is necessary following spate of killings of security personnel and other security breaches by unknown gunmen.

“Consequently, a night curfew is hereby imposed and no person or vehicle is allowed into and out of Rivers State from 8:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. from tomorrow (Wednesday) April 28, 2021 until further notice,” the governor said.

He said security personnel have been posted to monitor and strictly ensure citizens comply with the rules,  recalling that some security officers were killed on Saturday and Sunday while on duty.

The Gazette had earlier reported that three Customs officers were killed alongside an unspecified number of police officers at Isiokpo Omuanwa road in the Ikwere Local Government Area of the state.

The Gazette learnt at least four soldiers were killed in a fresh attack Sunday night at Abua/Odua Local Government Areas of the state.

Although, the security agencies are investigating these attacks to bring the perpetrators to justice, Mr Wike worries that “nobody yet knows where and when the next attack would take place.”

He added, “Neither do we also know the motives of the deranged characters or group behind these senseless assault on our state and the lives of security operatives working to keep us safe and secure.”

He urged residents to be vigilant and immediately report suspicious movement to security agencies, noting that “nothing can be more paramount than their collective safety and security.”

“However, what is obvious is that the attackers and their sponsors are people who came from outside Rivers State, and as a Government, we are determined to do everything within our powers to prevent the re-occurrence of such senseless and murderous acts aimed at creating an atmosphere of gross insecurity and panic among the citizens,” the governor’s aide, Kelvin Ebiri said, quoting the governor .

“In view of what is going on therefore and its implications to the security of the State and citizens, and in discharge of our constitutional responsibility in that regard, the Government of Rivers State has decided to restrict night movements into and out of the State from the land borders of the State,” he added.