Outrage as Amasiri Diaspora Traders Demand Justice Over “Harsh” Curfew Measures

By Reporter

Tension continues to rise over the situation in Amasiri community in Ebonyi State, as traders in the diaspora have accused Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru of enforcing what they describe as a “devastating and unjust curfew,” which they say has pushed the area into humanitarian distress.

Speaking to journalists in Lagos on March 27, the group stated that the government’s response to the January 29 violence in Okporojo has gone beyond necessary security measures. They alleged that the actions amount to collective punishment, destruction of livelihoods, and systematic targeting of Amasiri indigenes.
According to the traders, the curfew—initially set at 20 hours daily—has crippled both economic and social activities, forcing the closure of schools, markets, churches, and healthcare services. They added that the heavy presence of armed security personnel has worsened the situation, with reports of injuries, displacement, and widespread fear, leading many residents, particularly youths, to flee the area.
The group also criticized the governor’s early actions, including the removal of traditional rulers and political appointees from Amasiri, describing the decisions as hasty and taken without proper investigation.
Despite the restrictions affecting residents, the traders questioned why quarry companies in the area have continued operations, describing it as a contradiction in policy enforcement.
They further expressed disappointment that an appeal by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu calling for restraint and mercy has not resulted in any noticeable change.
Calling for urgent intervention, the traders demanded the immediate lifting of the curfew, the release of detained community leaders, and the establishment of an independent panel to investigate the crisis.
They warned that failure to address the situation could deepen grievances and lead to prolonged instability.