By Ikwen Atuaka
The Obudu local government council Monday announced a ban on night partying and clubbing in the council area as a measure to arrest the rising level of insecurity in the area.
The ban, effective from June 14 through September 14, 2016 and a restriction on movement beyond 10pm was announced by the local government chairman, Emmanuel Ugbe during a meeting with owners of relaxation spots, alcohol joints and other entertainment centers.
Ugbe, represented by the Secretary to the Council, Barrister Obi Ogboaka attributed the rising spate of violence to the developmental strides been recorded in the local government area and urged all to abide by the new regulations which he said was in the best interest of all.
The Community Relations Officer in Obudu, Mr. Emmanuel Akwagiobe, on his part explained that the curfew and ban became necessary following the resurgence in gangsters activities in Cross River and Benue states which has claimed many lives already and reminded the operators of the recent killing of an indigene after he was shot while leaving a relaxation spot.
However, one of the operators, (unnamed), blamed the government for the rising crimes associated with gangsterism. He complained that the police always released apprehended suspects shortly after without prosecution and urged the government to first curb the menace of gangsterism before coming to them.
Also, a traditional leader who simply gave his name as Chief Ugbong called on security officials to always protect informants. He described it as “Very important” and attributed the low level of cooperation between the public and the police to the insecurity of informants.
But, they all agreed to work with security officials to ensure the curfew is implemented with the Director of DSS in Obudu, Caesar Otonye and the representatives of the Police and NSCDC, urging all to effectively utilize the emergency numbers to ensure all hands are on deck for peace to reign.