Nigeria: Authorities maintain a dusk-to-dawn security curfew in Igbo-Eze North and Igbo-Eze South areas of Enugu State as of June 15

Event

Officials are maintaining an 18:00-06:00 curfew in Igbo-Eze North and Igbo-Eze South Local Government Areas (LGA) of Enugu State as of June 15, citing ongoing security challenges. Commercial drivers known as keke or okada are only able to operate during those hours and are banned from operating in the Aguibeje and Iyionu communities in Igbo-Eze North. Officials warned that the measure will be strictly enforced. During previous restrictive periods in the region, only those performing essential duties were exempt from the curfew, and individuals had to carry official identification at all times.

Authorities will likely maintain an increased security presence to ensure adherence to the curfew; associated localized transport and commercial disruptions are likely. Locals opposed to the measure may stage protests.

Context

Local authorities in Nigeria often implement measures such as curfews in response to increased criminal attacks or communal clashes. The exact nature of the threat is unclear and may be related to the uptick in attacks attributed to Biafran separatists in southeastern Nigeria.

Advice

Exercise a high degree of vigilance due to the threat of violence. Abide by the curfew. Carry official identification at all times. Plan for movement and business disruptions. Avoid all demonstrations. Maintain contact with diplomatic representations.