LAGOS
A 24-hour curfew has been imposed in Nigeria's northeastern Damaturu town of Yobe State, a day after hundreds of Boko Haram militants tried to capture the town.
"All Damaturu residents are advised to remain in their homes during the hours of the curfew," Abdullahi Bego, spokesman of the governor, said in statement announcing the curfew which he said "takes effect immediately."
"The decision is taken as part of measures to enable the security agents, who did a great job yesterday, to conclude their ongoing assignment," it added.
"The governor has expressed his appreciation to the residents of the state capital and to people all across the state for their support and cooperation with security agents.
"While urging continue to support the security efforts and to pray to Almighty Allah for the return of peace and security."
On Monday, militants laid a siege on the capital of Yobe State since the early hours of the day until the army deployed a fighter jet to crush what locals suspected was an attempt by the Boko Haram militant group to capture it.
Security sources had told The Anadolu Agency that dozens of people, mostly insurgents, were killed during Monday's clashes.
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