Amidst escalating protests against hunger and poor governance across Nigeria, several regions experienced violent outbreaks, prompting swift responses from authorities.
The demonstrations, initially planned as peaceful, have been marked by significant unrest, leading to casualties, curfews, and heightened security measures.
Kano State: Curfew Declared Amid Unrest
In Kano State, Governor Abba Yusuf imposed a 24-hour curfew following reports of hoodlums hijacking the protest.
Speaking at the Kano State government house, the Governor emphasized the need to protect lives and property, noting, “Hoodlums and thugs have taken advantage of the situation to loot and kill innocent citizens.” Security forces were instructed to enforce the curfew strictly.
Kebbi State: Businessman Killed by Stray Bullet
In Kebbi State, a peaceful protest turned tragic when a stray bullet fired by marine police killed a businessman in his shop.
The incident occurred near Yauri River, where protesters had blocked the federal highway.
An eyewitness, Malam Umar Bako Yelwa, recounted, “The police fired bullets to disperse the crowd, and a stray bullet hit and killed an innocent plastic seller in his shop.”
Attempts to reach the Kebbi State Police Command for comments were unsuccessful.
Kaduna State: Deadly Clashes with Security Forces
Kaduna also witnessed violent clashes, resulting in the deaths of at least three youths and injuries to many others.
The protesters, predominantly unemployed youths, marched from Rigasa and Abakwa towards the Sir Kashim Ibrahim House.
An eyewitness described the chaos: “We were marching peacefully with no offensive weapons.
Suddenly, a vehicle used for spraying hot water on protesters came speeding towards us.” The panic led to a deadly confrontation with security forces.
Abuja: Anti-Protest Demonstrators and Standoff
In Abuja, anti-protest demonstrators led by a man identified as Blessing Joel took to the streets, carrying placards with messages like “No Protest.”
Meanwhile, a tense standoff occurred at the Kurudu Axis, where angry youths blocked roads with bonfires.
The protest caused significant traffic disruptions as police attempted to maintain order.
Rivers State: Governor Fubara’s Position
In Rivers State, Governor Simi Fubara acknowledged the protesters’ rights but emphasized the need for peaceful demonstrations.
“We are not against protests, but they must be conducted peacefully,” he stated, addressing concerns about potential violence.
Maiduguri: Peaceful Protests and Security Presence
In Maiduguri, Borno State, protests remained peaceful, with youths carrying placards demanding action on fuel subsidies, hunger, and insecurity.
Security personnel monitored the situation, maintaining a peaceful atmosphere.
Lagos State: Heightened Security and Business Disruptions
In Lagos, heightened security measures were evident, with special police units stationed at key locations.
The streets were largely empty, with only commercial buses operating. Major businesses, including banks, eateries, fuel stations, and superstores, were closed.
Miscreants were seen loitering and consuming alcohol on major roads, while police helicopters conducted aerial surveillance.
