Economic and social activities have resumed in Damaturu, the Yobe State capital amid the state of emergency declared on the State by the Federal Government.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that many shops that closed to business due to attacks by insurgents have re-opened, with customers thronging markets, boutiques and provision stores.
Alhaji Abdullahi Bego, Special Adviser to Yobe Governor on Media and Information, had at a public function, urged the people to continue praying for peace and provide security operatives with useful information.
“We are grateful that for the past nine months, we have not had any breach of the peace in Damaturu,” he had said.
In appreciation of the peace in Damaturu, Yobe Government relaxed the curfew imposed on the state capital, with a new time starting from 9p.m. to 6 a.m. as against the initial time of 6p.m to 6a.m.
NAN observed on Saturday that the relaxed curfew had also led to increased business activities as shops; tea and roasted meat joints conduct businesses up to 9p.m., a development inconceivable a few months ago.
Similarly, banks have been rendering services to customers from 9.00a.m to 1.00p.m, while schools are in full session.
Alhaji Ali Usman, a civil servant and resident of Damaturu, expressed delight over the improvement in the security situation in the state, especially the capital.
“We thank God for the improvement in the security situation and the cordial relationship existing between security operatives and civilians in Damaturu,” he said.
Buba Kkaku, a student in Damaturu said “normalcy has returned such that we are even able to organise a football competition among the wards in Damaturu.
“We appreciate the federal and state government’s efforts in restoring peace to the state,” he added.
NAN also reports that Damaturu residents now gather to celebrate wedding and naming ceremonies as against the complete suspension of festivities by many households last year.
