The Nigerian Army on Friday relaxed the 24 hour curfew it imposed on Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, following Wednesday’s attempt by Boko Haram insurgents to invade the city.

A statement by the Deputy Director Army Public Relations, 7 Division Maiduguri, Tukur Gusau, a Colonel, said that movement of people would be allowed between 12.00pm and 5.00pm and that the 24 hour curfew would continue after that.

Even during the temporary relaxation of the curfew, he said that no vehicular movement would be allowed.

It is believed the curfew was relaxed to allow Muslims attend Jumat prayers on Friday.

Residents had been forced to stay indoors, as the total restriction of movement prevented workers, traders and others from going to work. All commercial activity had been grounded for nearly two days in the capital city.

The total curfew was imposed on Thursday after Boko Haram insurgents tried to attack Maiduguri.