Residents of Nalerigu in the North East Region have welcomed the lifting of curfew on the community, describing the development as a relief that will allow them return fully to their daily economic and social activities.

The Ministry of the Interior announced the lifting of the curfew last Monday.

The decision, it explained, followed advice from the North East Regional Security Council after it found that the security situation in the area had improved considerably.

A statement signed by the sector Minister, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, said the government also considered the prevailing peace and stability in the area before taking the decision. 

Commendation

The ministry commended the chiefs, opinion leaders, youth groups and residents for their cooperation and support in maintaining law and order during the period of the curfew.

The statement urged residents to continue to exercise restraint in addressing challenges confronting the area and to adopt non-violent means in resolving disputes.

It further gave an assurance that security agencies would continue to monitor developments in the area to sustain the prevailing peace. 

Reactions

A resident, Alhassan Sumani, expressed appreciation for the development, saying the restrictions had affected business operations, particularly in the evenings.

Another resident, Ayisha Yakubu, however, urged security agencies to maintain strong surveillance in the area to prevent any resurgence of violence.

She also appealed to community members to prioritise dialogue and peaceful coexistence to sustain the prevailing calm.

Background

The curfew was imposed in 2025, following renewed disturbances and sporadic violent incidents in Nalerigu and surrounding communities, which raised concerns about public safety and the protection of lives and property.

The disturbances, believed to be linked to the protracted conflict in Bawku, resulted in the loss of lives and destruction of property, heightening tension in the area.

Initially, a 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. curfew was imposed as part of measures to restore calm and prevent further escalation of violence. 

The curfew was later reviewed to 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. following a gradual improvement in the security situation.

During the period of enforcement, movement within the township and its environs was restricted, while security personnel intensified patrols to prevent further clashes.