By Samuel Ogenyi, Uyo
Two persons have been allegedly shot dead at Ibom plaza, at the heart of Uyo metropolis following confrontation between EndSARS protesters and security agents on Thursday evening.
One bank has also been reportedly burnt as the protest which has been peaceful in Uyo became violent.
It was gathered that trouble started when a vehicle belonging to one of the security agencies was denied passage through the popular Ibom plaza by protesters who have occupied the facility since Monday.
They were said to have shot sporadically into the air to ward off protesters who were ready to pounce on them only for the stray bullet to hit two of the protesters.
It was learnt that the protesting youths chased the vehicle, which was able to meander its way through some side streets around the plaza area untill they were able to escape from their pursuers.
Already some government offices were said to have been torched by the protesters who had earlier in the afternoon stormed the entrance of Idongesit Nkanga Secretariat, displacing unsuspecting workers who fled at sight of the approaching troops.
Report available to newsmen also have it that there was also another clash between the protesters who insisted on matching to the Government House and the security agencies.
Major roads in the state capital have become deserted as people quickly took refuge in their homes to avoid being cut in cross fire.
Meanwhile the state government has declared a one day curfew in a desperate move to quel violence which greeted the EndSARS protests Thursday evening in Uyo and other parts of the state.
A statement declaring the curfew from the state Information Commmissioner, Barr Ini Ememobong said the curfew would in the first instance last from 9pm on Thursday to noon on Friday.
“Due to the violent manifestations of some persons masquerading as #EndSARS protesters trying to create chaos this evening, in Uyo, the capital city of Akwa Ibom state, HE the Governor of Akwa Ibom state, Mr. Udom Emmanuel has declared a curfew effective 9pm today, Thursday, 22nd October,2020 till midday tomorrow, Friday, 23rd October, 2020.
“This action is taken to protect lives and property of citizens and the restoration of Law and Order in our state. Within the period of this curfew, there will be an absolute cessation of movement, except for essential service providers, who must show a valid means of identification.
“We urge all law abiding citizens to stay at home during the period of this curfew.” It said.
