At least 19 Nigerians were reportedly killed on Thursday after hoodlums hijacked the first day of nationwide protests against economic hardship.
Originally intended to be peaceful, the demonstrations by youths across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory turned violent in several areas, including Kano, Borno, Yobe, Kaduna, Gombe, Bauchi, the FCT, Niger, and Jigawa. This led to the loss of lives and destruction of property.
Six Protesters Killed in Niger State
At least six Nigerian youths were killed during a protest against bad governance in Suleja, Niger State on Thursday.
Several others were injured. The initially peaceful protest turned violent when anti-riot police, led by the Police Area Commander, tried to disperse the crowd using teargas.
The defiant youths retaliated by throwing stones and sticks, damaging a police vehicle. In response, police fired live ammunition, resulting in six fatalities.
Four Reported Killed in Kaduna
Three protesters and one security operative were reportedly killed in Kaduna State on Thursday during a violent protest.
The incident occurred as protesters marched from the Rigasa and Abakwa areas towards the Sir Kashim Ibrahim House, the governor’s residence.
An eyewitness reported that security vehicles sprayed the crowd with hot water, causing panic and leading to the deaths of three protesters. One security operative also died in the chaos.
Police Fire Live Ammunition, Kill Two in Jigawa
In Jigawa State, a hunger protest on Thursday led to the deaths of at least two protesters. The protest took place across more than 10 LGAs, with reports of destruction and looting.
One protester was shot dead in front of Government House in Dutse, while another was killed at Shiwarin town. Protesters also set ablaze the APC headquarters and burnt party vehicles in Dutse.
Three Killed in Kano
Three protesters were killed in Kano State during Thursday’s protest, prompting a 24-hour curfew. One protester was shot by a police officer in front of the government house, while two others were killed while attempting to flee. Properties belonging to both the government and private individuals were vandalized.
Meanwhile, the Kano State Police Command announced the arrest of 269 individuals in connection to looting of Private and Government facilities.
Protesters Stone Police in FCT
In the Federal Capital Territory, the protest was hijacked by hoodlums, causing tension. FCT Police PRO, SP Josephine Adeh, confirmed that protesters were throwing stones at officers.
The Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, placed all units on red alert, emphasizing the commitment to protect lives and maintain order amidst the widespread violence.
Boko Haram Infiltrates Protest in Borno, Killing 4 and Injuring 34
In Maiduguri, Borno State, suspected Boko Haram members infiltrated a peaceful protest, killing four people and injuring 34 others with explosive devices.
Borno’s Police Commissioner, Farouq Lawal, stated that the injured and deceased were taken to Specialist Hospital Maiduguri.
The protest, involving minors aged 9-15, escalated into violence, particularly along the Maiduguri-Kano road at the Mala Kachalla Roundabout.
Get instant and latest news updates via Our WhatsApp Community or Google News online channel.
Credit – Vanguard, Daily Post, Arise TV, Daily Trust