A violent clash between security forces and protesters defying a government-imposed curfew has reportedly left several people dead and many others injured in Kano.
The unrest erupted during ongoing #EndBadGovernance demonstrations in the state.
Eyewitnesses reported that at least eight people, including women and children, were shot during the clash in the Rijiyar Lemo area. An elderly woman and three others have been confirmed dead, while many others suffered 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 observed the incident.
The state’s police spokesman, SP Abdullahi Haruna, confirmed the incident but stated, “We are still gathering information at the moment and will release the full details once the investigation is complete.”
Kano Commissioner of Information, Baba Dantiye, also confirmed fatalities at Kofar Nasawa and Kurna due to the clash between protesters and police.
The trouble reportedly began when security forces attempted to disperse youths gathered in defiance of the 24-hour curfew imposed by the Kano State Government. Protesters, carrying placards, assembled at Mandawari, Kofar Kwaru, and parts of the Nasarawa area of Kano, chanting, “We would rather be killed by a bullet than killed by hunger.”
What started as a peaceful protest on Thursday escalated into violence. Hoodlums reportedly attempted to loot shops, including a Rufaida yoghurt outlet, but were dispersed by security agents.
Several public and private properties in Kano were attacked. The newly built Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) Industrial Park was set ablaze, with looters stealing desktop computers, chairs, keyboards, and other equipment.
In response to the deteriorating security situation, Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf imposed a 24-hour curfew to restore order. However, defiance of the curfew has led to further clashes.