• Hoodlums attack Benin prison
• Several inmates escape
The Edo State Government has imposed a curfew in the state, as the EndSARS protest turned violent today.
Secretary to the State Government, OSARODION OGIE, announced that the curfew begins from 4PM today and will last until further notice.
The announcement was made after what appeared like the hijack of the EndSARS protesters by criminals.
This followed attacks on three police stations and a prison break at the Benin Prison, which is popularly called White House.
Several inmates were seen in online videos from the scene as they scaled the walls of the prison onto the nearby streets.
The hoodlums are also said to have destroyed High Court Four, which is located beside the prison, as well as other property.
Meanwhile; the State Government said while it respects the rights of citizens to undertake legitimate protests, it cannot sit idly when hoodlums have taken laws into their hands to cause mayhem.
Following the imposition of the curfew, schools and businesses have been directed to shut down, while those who cannot move to safely are advised to stay put until calmness is restored.
Parents are also advised to control in their children, youths, and wards, to avoid further breakdown of law and order.