The Bayelsa State Government has imposed a 24-hour curfew on the Biseni community in Yenagoa Local Government Area following a violent protest by youths over lack of infrastructure in the area
It was gathered that several buildings belonging to traditional chiefs in the community were set on fire during the protest
Governor Douye Diri, who announced the curfew on Friday in a statement by his press secretary, Mr Daniel Alabrah, said it followed the breakdown of law and order in the community
He said the directive was with immediate effect
He said Governor Diri gave the order on Friday after receiving briefings from security commanders on the security situation in the community, where some unscrupulous elements had barricaded roads into and within the town making bonfires
The Bayelsa governor also directed security operatives to ensure restoration of law and order, peace and security in the community
He advised responsible members of the community to remain law-abiding as the government would continue to take measures to guarantee the safety of lives and property in Biseni
Meanwhile, tension reportedly escalated in the community after youths protested against the lack of electricity, good roads and other basic amenities, which they said the oil-producing company operating in the area should provide
Reports indicated that a meeting was subsequently held between the youths and representatives of some groups, during which assurances were reportedly given that their demands would be considered
However, one of the youths was allegedly arrested over claims that he sponsored some youths to block the company’s access road