1 month ago
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As the protests enter Day 4, indications are rife that Abuja, Kano, PH, and Jigawa are still flashpoints. Yesterday, security breaches were noticed in Kano leaving some casualties during the protest.
A violent clash between security operatives and protesters defying a government-imposed curfew left several people feared dead and many others injured in Kano.
The unrest erupted during the ongoing #EndBadGovernance demonstrations in the state.
Eyewitnesses reported that at least eight people, including women and children, were shot in the confrontation that occurred in the Rijiyar Lemo area.
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An elderly woman and three others are confirmed dead, with many others sustaining serious injuries.
“At least eight people were shot in our area, including females and children. An elderly woman is now dead alongside three others, while many have sustained serious injuries,” recounted a witness who saw the incident unfold.
When contacted, the police spokesman in the state, SP Abdullahi Haruna, confirmed the incident but said “we are still gathering information at the moment and will release the full details of what happened once the investigation is complete”.
Also, Kano Commissioner of Information, Baba Dantiye, confirmed that people died at Kofar Nasawa and Kurna as a result of clash between protesters and the police.
The trouble reportedly began when security forces attempted to disperse youths who had gathered in defiance of the 24-hour curfew imposed by the Kano State Government.
The protesters, brandishing placards, had gathered at Mandawari, Kofar Kwaru, and parts of the Nasarawa area of Kano, chanting slogans such as, “We would rather be killed by a bullet than killed by hunger.”
The protest, which started peacefully on Thursday, spiralled into violence. Hoodlums were said to have attempted to loot shops, including a Rufaida yoghurt outlet, but were dispersed by security agents.
Some public and private properties across Kano were attacked. Notably, the newly built Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) Industrial Park was set ablaze, with looters making away with desktop computers, chairs, keyboards, and other appliances from the facility.
Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf had imposed a 24-hour curfew in response to the deteriorating security situation, aiming to restore order in the state. However, the defiance of the curfew has led to further clashes.
In a related development, well-meaning members of the society have been calling for the suspension of the protests. The Northern Senators Forum has appealed to youths and other Nigerians to exercise restraint in the protests going on in the country.
It said that this was imperative given the violence and resultant loss of lives and property.
The Chairman of the Forum, Sen. Abdulaziz Yar’adua said this in a letter addressed to Nigerian youths and made available to journalists in Abuja on Saturday.
“I write to you today as the Chairman of the Northern Senators Forum, with a deep sense of concern and hope for the future of our great nation.
“While it’s your democratic right to embark on a peaceful protest to press home your demands, it is equally important to recognise that most protests have ended up in violence.”
According to him, the current protests have resulted in the loss of lives and properties in some states, leading to the declaration of curfews.
This, he said, was despite clarion calls by well-meaning Nigerians, including Islamic and Christian clerics, advising on need to consider other options to negotiate and engage with the government.
“Therefore, I wish to call on those who organised the nationwide protests to reflect on what happened on the first day of the protests,” he said.
Yar’adua said President Bola Tinubu was aware of the challenges faced by Nigerians , and was working tirelessly to address the issues.
He said Tinubu had demonstrated his commitment to welfare of citizens by increasing the minimum wage after engaging in constructive dialogue with the Nigeria Labour Congress. (NLC).
“This is a significant achievement, and a testament to his willingness to listen and work collaboratively.
“In addition, the government has embarked on the Social Welfare Intervention Schemes like the cash transfer, consumer credit scheme, and N110 billion National Youth Investment Fund amongst others to reduce the economic hardships faced by Nigerians .
“Furthermore, this administration has made it possible for students from disadvantaged backgrounds to access loans and complete their university education.
” This is a groundbreaking initiative, unprecedented in our nation’s history.
“The President has also signed the North West and South East Development Commissions to bring development closer to the grassroot.”
Yar’adua therefore urged the youths to give the government a chance to implement its policies and programmes.
According to him , there is need to exercise more patience and allow the government to actualise its vision.
“Let us engage with the government on a round table, sharing our ideas and concerns.
“Together, we can build a brighter future for ourselves and generations to come.
“Remember, the youths are the future leaders of Nigeria, and it is their responsibility to shape the destiny of our nation.
“Let us do so with wisdom, patience, and understanding, may God guide your steps and actions,” he said.
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