Group decries Billiri curfew, demands release of 24 persons
Chima Azubuike, Gombe
Tangale Elders Forum, under leadership of the Tangale Community Development Association Board of Trustees, has lamented the ongoing curfew that was imposed by the State Government.
Following breakdown of law and order which ensued from delay to pronounce Dr. Musa Maiyamba, a candidate with the highest vote winner to the mai Tangle stool.
Recall curfew was first declared since Friday 19th of February dusk to dawn, but was subsequently reviewed to 6am – 2pm, government recently relaxed it on the 8th March 2021 to 6pm.
In a statement issued on behalf of the Elders Forum by Agur Sankace Acting National President and Hon. Charles Iliya, the group stated that the current timeframe should be adjusted to allow residents whom are predominantly Christians enjoy the easter break.
“The Tangale Elders Forum decry the very long duration of the curfew imposed on our people. The curfew should therefore be completely lifted in order to allow our people (the Christians) to observe the Easter celebration which is a major religious observance by the Christendom all over the world.
“The Forum decried and condemned in unequivocal terms the wanton destruction of economic facilities and some residential houses and the forum extended its heartfelt sympathy to such victims. The forum appreciates the State Administration’s public pronouncement with regards to compensation to such identified victims. This measure would no doubt fast-track the healing process, as well as encourage the return of people who fled away,” the statement read.
While bemoaning the number of arrests of residents, the group demanded the release of a district head of Todi and 23 others, adding that the rightful winner should be enthroned.
The forum added, “The arrest of our people up to 24 numbers by the State Government to Abuja and Gombe was an Anathema. We believed a crisis like this takes two to tango, however the arrest was lopsided.
“The Tangale Elders Forum and the TCDA demand also the release of the District Head of Todi who was also arrested for flimsy reasons.
“It is evident that the Governor does not mean well for the Tangale people, this is quite clear from the statement coming from the Governor. Let him not forget that he swore to an allegiance to protect the lives and properties of the entire people of Gombe State and of course the Tangale people.
“The guide line as approved in accordance with the culture and tradition of the Tangale people was totally flouted. The government took over the entire exercise instead of the King makers.
“The entire Tangale people do not want anything now other than the appointment and enthronement of Dr. Musa Idris Iliyasu Maiyamba as the duly elected Mai Tangle.
“The Tangale Elders Forum wishes to use this opportunity to call on our people to be firmly united with one another. Our people should also be their brother’s keepers by being security conscious in whatever they are doing. We appeal to our people to remain calm as the Tangale Elders Forum is restive for the sake of the Tangale nation.”
Its long overdue for the governor to lift the curfew. He created the chaos in the first place. Thank you elders forum.
That asking the government to leave up the curfew is in order Jesus bless his people and the church in Jesus name amen
Thanks for effort My elders