Mixed feelings expressed over anti-terrorism measures

People in Fako Division of the Southwest Region have expressed frustrations regarding the prefectural orders regulating the movement of people and operation of businesses within the Division.

The measures put in place by administrative officials, less than a month ago, with the intention of ensuring the security of citizens and preventing Boko Haram activities in the Region, have been termed by some people as ‘not too good’.

According to the measures, a curfew has been slammed on businesses and movement from 9.00pm till dawn.

Charlotte Ngwa, a Bokwai-Buea resident, has observed that the measure is good, but for that on movement, because, people are forced to trek.

“I work out of town and often come back late in the evening. By this time, many taxis would have stopped working, leading to scrambled for the few that are still working, so, I am compelled to trek home. This is not only tedious but also very risky as one might be attacked by thieves.

“The time slated for the movement of taxis and motorbikes should be extended to 11.00 pm, so that those of us with tight schedules can get convenient means of transportation,” she opined.

According to a taxi driver who gave his name only as Collins, the implementation of the curfew is affecting taxi drives negatively. He said his daily income has seriously dropped and all goes to the proprietor of the taxi.

“I used to work extra hours from 9.00pm to midnight in order to get something for myself, but since the beginning of the curfew, I no longer work after 9.00pm and I barely earn FCFA 1,500 in a day, which is not enough for my upkeep,” he lamented.

The proprietor of a drinking spot, Francisca Ngwendon, said: “My business is greatly affected as I have lost most of my customers. This has led to a drastic fall in my income. Considering the fact that schools are resuming soon, I have resorted to loans to take care of my children and meet up with other needs. What can one do, since we understand these new regulations are for our own safety?”

“The Government should extend the time for closure of our businesses and let us work hand-in-hand with the police since allegations are that we are transporters of terrorists. By so doing, the security will be strengthened as we (bikers) enter so many places and transport people in different areas.

In this course, we can detect criminals and notify the forces of law and order and, together, we fight terrorism. David Kodjo, a biker averred.

However, the Senior Divisional Officer for Fako, Zang III, had, at the introduction of the safety measures, stated that: “When the country is at war, it is not only for the soldiers, but for the country as a whole. That is why we must collectively stop Boko Haram, or any form of insecurity.”

These complaints notwithstanding, the populace is advised not to violate any of the security measures put in place.