By Jude Owuamanam
Jos ( Sundiata Post) – The entire city of Jos and Bukuru metropolis have been deserted following the decision of Ndigbo living in Plateau State to close shops.
The decision was in solidarity with the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, which called for statewide prayers 24 hours to the touted quit order given to Ndigbo living in the North by Arewa Youths.
Though the order was later withdrawn, CAN had called for fasting and prayers for the unity of the country, ahead of the country’s 57th Independent anniversary.
The entire stretch of Ahmadu Bello Way, the hub of commercial activities in Jos and adjoining areas of Terminus, Muritala Mohammed Way, Taraba Balewa, were all deserted as Igbo traders obeyed the directive of the umbrella Igbo Community Association to stay away from their business areas on Saturday.
Though there was no restriction of movement, Most markets like like Gada Biu, Satellite market, Kugiya market, Bukuru and Building Material along Bukuru highway were under lock and key.
Residents were advised to congregate in their local churches and pray for the country. Main church services were however held at St. Jarlath Catholic Church Bukuru and headquartsrs of the Church of Christ in Nigeria, COCIN, in Jos.
There is however apprehensions in town as residents move about cautiously. The state government had announced a dusk to dawn curfew in the wake of the clashes that occurred last week. It was relaxed from 12 midnight to 6 am. It is not clear whether a 24 – hour curfew will be imposed on Saturday as rumours are rife that the state government is contemplating such measure to stem any rise in violence.