Diri imposes immediate 24-hour curfew in Bayelsa’s Biseni community

Governor Douye Diri has imposed a 24-hour curfew in Biseni community, Yenagoa Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, following unrest. The order took immediate effect on Friday.

Security operatives have been directed to restore law and order. The governor issued the directive after receiving briefings from security commanders about the situation in the community.

A statement from the governor’s office said people had barricaded roads into and within Biseni and lit bonfires.

Daily Trust reported that youths had protested over a lack of electricity, good roads and other basic amenities, which they said the oil-producing company operating in the area should provide. The newspaper also reported that several buildings belonging to traditional chiefs were set on fire.

According to Daily Trust, a meeting was held between the youths and representatives of some groups, with assurances that their demands would be considered. One youth was allegedly arrested over claims that he sponsored the blocking of the company’s access road.

Diri urged residents to remain law-abiding.

Sources: Punch, Daily Trust