[BREAKING] Deborah: Tambuwal imposes 24-hour curfew on Sokoto metropolis

By Akinwande Soji-Ojo

Sokoto State Governor, Aminu Tambuwal, has imposed a 24-hour curfew on the state, following the violent protest by youths who were demanding the release of two suspects arrested in connection with the killing of Deborah Samuel.

Samuel, who was a student of Shehu Shagari College of Education, was killed and set ablaze by a mob for alleged blasphemy, on Thursday.

Her killing had sparked outrage and condemnation across the country, with Nigerians asking the government to fish out the perpetrators of the dastardly act.

The state police command subsequently announced the arrest of two suspects in connection with the killing.

But on Saturday morning, some Muslim youths took to the streets to protest against the arrest of the suspects.

Armed with placards with various inscriptions, such as: “Release our Muslim brothers”, “Muslims Are Not Terrorists”, “Peaceful riot”, the youths asked the police to release the arrested suspects.

“Following the sad incident that happened at the Shehu Shagari College of Education, on Thursday, and sequel to development within the metropolis this morning, by the powers of section 176(2) of the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and also section 15 of Sokoto state peace preservation law, I hereby declare a curfew within the Sokoto metropolis for the next 24 hours.

“I appeal to the citizens of Sokoto State to kindly continue to observe law and order,” Tambuwal said in a statement.

Meanwhile, the school has been closed down pending the investigation of the incident.