Musdapha Ilo, Maiduguri

The ban on vehicular movements imposed on Maduguri, the Borno State capital, has been extended by another 24 hours.

In a statement signed by the spokesman of the 7th Division of the Nigerian Army, Sani Usman, a Colonel, on Sunday, the military said that the restriction has been extended until Tuesday, instead of the initial Monday morning announced.

“Please be informed that the embargo on all vehicular movements in the 7 Division Area of responsibility has been extended till 7am on Tuesday, October 7 , 2014. Please disseminate,” the statement read.

Although no explanation was given for the extension, the military had said in a previous statement announcing the ban that it was acting to forestall any breach of security during the Sallah season as it received reports that members of the Boko Haram sect had planned to stage attacks in various quarters across the town.

So far, the celebration has been peaceful.

Residents, however, lament the long distances they are compelled to cover on foot as a result of the ban but are convinced it is a good measure put in place for their safety as no price was too great to pay for one’s life.