The Nasarawa State Police Command has issued an official clarification regarding the security measures currently in place in Lafia, the state capital, emphasizing that there is no curfew imposed on the city.
Speaking on Monday, the state's Police Public Relations Officer, SP Ramhan Nansel, addressed growing confusion among residents who have mistaken nighttime restrictions on motorcycles and tricycles for a general curfew.
"People are confusing the restriction of movement of motorcycles and tricycles with a curfew," Nansel explained. "A curfew would restrict the movement of people, vehicles, and involve the closure of businesses. That is not what is happening in Lafia."
According to the police spokesperson, the current directive specifically targets commercial motorcycles (okada) and tricycles (keke), primarily as a security measure to prevent crime during nighttime hours. The restriction does not affect other forms of movement or transportation.
"The restriction does not prevent individuals from moving around on foot or in vehicles. It also exempts essential workers," Nansel added.
Addressing Allegations of Police Misconduct
The clarification comes amid complaints from residents alleging harassment and extortion by police officers conducting night patrols in the state capital. Some residents have reported being stopped and forced to pay bribes despite not violating any restrictions.
Responding to these allegations, SP Nansel assured the public that such reports would be taken seriously and thoroughly investigated. He encouraged victims of extortion to come forward with their complaints to enable appropriate disciplinary action.
"The public needs to respect the law. If the restriction is respected and there is a high level of compliance, there won't be cries of extortion," he stated.
Residents who wish to report cases of misconduct or extortion by police officers are encouraged to call the dedicated police hotlines: 07032532391 or 08037461715.
The police command has not specified when the nighttime restrictions on motorcycles and tricycles will be lifted, suggesting they will remain in place as part of ongoing security measures in the state capital.
