The nationwide hardship protest in Kano State has escalated into violence, with hoodlums taking advantage of the situation to loot shops and offices. What began as a peaceful demonstration against economic difficulties quickly devolved into chaos as mobs attacked businesses across the city. The looters were seen ransacking properties, removing valuables such as chairs, computers, and other equipment.
In one notable incident, at about 10:15 a.m., protesters invaded the popular Rufaidah Yoghurt store on Hadejia Road, Kano, and went on a looting spree. They also targeted a yet-to-be-commissioned industrial park belonging to the Nigeria Communications Commission. The violence was not limited to Kano; similar scenes unfolded in Gombe and Abuja, where clashes between protesters and security officials led to chaotic situations requiring intervention.
The protests, which started peacefully, have been marked by confrontations with security forces. In Abuja, for instance, police fired tear gas indiscriminately to prevent protesters from accessing Eagle Square around the Three Arms Zone. Despite these efforts, the protesters regrouped and continued their demonstrations, blocking major roads and clashing with police.
Local leaders and community organizations have called for calm and dialogue to address the underlying issues that sparked the protests. Efforts are being made to engage with protest organizers and government officials to find a resolution and prevent further unrest.
The #EndBadGovernance protests organized across Nigeria have turned violent in major cities such as Kano, Gombe, and Abuja. In Kano, the protest turned violent after some protesters took to the streets with dangerous weapons. The situation deteriorated as hoodlums hijacked the protest, leading to widespread looting and attacks on businesses.
In Abuja, protesters at the entrance of the MKO Abiola stadium refused police orders to go inside and instead commenced a march towards Eagle Square. The police responded by firing tear gas to disperse the crowd, but the protesters regrouped and continued their march, blocking Ahmadu Bello Way and pushing back against the police. Many people were injured, and journalists were specifically targeted, with at least two reporters arrested and one beaten despite identifying himself as a journalist.
In Gombe, what started as a peaceful protest also took a dramatic turn, resulting in clashes that required security intervention. Local leaders have urged for calm and dialogue to address the grievances of the protesters and prevent further violence.
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