POLICE TEAR GAS PROTESTERS AS BUSES BURN; CURFEW IMPOSED AMIDST NATIONWIDE DEMONSTRATIONS
On August 1, 2024, nationwide protests demanding government reforms began peacefully, with citizens advocating for the restoration of fuel subsidies, a new foreign exchange regime, and immediate changes to the electoral commission (INEC) and anti-corruption agency (EFCC). Protesters also addressed issues such as food shortages, unemployment, and government waste.
However, disturbances were reported in northern regions as some individuals, posing as protesters, incited chaos. At a local government secretariat, seven buses were set on fire, and significant looting occurred. This led to a response from security forces, who used tear gas to disperse the crowd and restore order.
Eyewitnesses in the North-East, as reported by Channel Television, noted that while some individuals attempted to create mayhem, they were swiftly contained by security personnel.
In response to the escalating violence, Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf has declared a 24-hour curfew. "We are deeply concerned by the turn of events and are taking all necessary measures to restore order. I urge all residents to remain indoors as security agencies work to enforce the curfew," said Governor Yusuf.
Similarly, the Yobe State government has imposed a 24-hour curfew in Potiskum, Gashua, and Nguru towns, where some protesters engaged in vandalism and looting. Yobe State Police Spokesman Dungus Abdulkarim confirmed these incidents and assured that those responsible would face justice.
Dairy Abdulsalam, Special Adviser to Governor Mai Mala Buni on Security Matters, urged residents to comply with the curfew to ensure peace. He confirmed that security agencies are enforcing the curfew and ensuring full compliance to restore calm in the affected areas and across the state.
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