Nigeria has been gripped by a wave of protests against perceived bad governance, escalating into widespread unrest. The movement, which began as peaceful demonstrations, has seen increasing violence and disruption across several states. Protesters are voicing their frustration over issues such as corruption, insecurity, and economic hardship. The situation has led to significant governmental and security responses to restore order and protect citizens.
Protests Erupt Across Nigeria, Curfews Declared in Multiple States
The Commissioner of Police, CP Salman Garba, announced the arrest of 269 suspected criminals linked to the violence and looting that marred the #EndBadGovernance protests. Governor Abba Yusuf declared a 24-hour curfew to restore order. Addressing the press, Yusuf emphasized that the curfew aims to protect lives and properties as thugs had hijacked the peaceful protests.
A 24-hour curfew was imposed following a suicide bombing in Kawuri Village in Borno State, which killed 16 people and injured 20 others. Governor Babagana Zulum, in consultation with security heads, deemed the curfew necessary to maintain peace. DSP Kenneth Daso, the state’s Police Public Relations Officer, urged residents to comply with the curfew.
The government imposed a 24-hour curfew in Potiskum, Gashua, and Nguru towns in Yobe State due to vandalism and looting by hoodlums. Dairy Abdulsalam, Special Adviser to Governor Mai Mala Buni on Security Matters, urged citizens to abide by the curfew to ensure peace.
Lagos State University Suspends Activities
Lagos State University (LASU) has suspended all activities on its campuses until further notice. Mrs Oluwayemisi Thomas-Onashile, Coordinator of the Centre for Information and Public Relations, stated the decision was to safeguard lives and properties. The university management will monitor developments and provide updates.
Abuja Protests and Security Measures
Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, revealed that security agencies identified a senator sponsoring the anti-government protests. Following an emergency FCT Security Council meeting, Wike disclosed that the senator facilitated a truckload of food for the protesters. Despite acknowledging the right to protest, Wike emphasized the need for respect for court orders limiting protests to the MKO Abiola National Stadium.
Nationwide Protests Lead to Violence and Fatalities
Protests turned violent in Kaduna, resulting in the deaths of three youths and injuries to many others. An eyewitness reported that the security operatives, feeling threatened by the large number of protesters, resorted to force. The situation escalated, leading to fatalities and injuries.
In Yauri Local Government Area in Kebbi State, a stray bullet from a policeman killed a businessman during the protests. Malam Umar Bako Yelwa reported that the police fired bullets to disperse the crowd, inadvertently killing the plastic seller. The state capital remained calm despite protests in some areas.
Plateau State: Security personnel in Plateau State ensured that the protests remained peaceful. They manned strategic locations to maintain order and protect the protesters’ right to demonstrate.
Government Responses and Public Reactions
Governor Simi Fubara of Rivers State addressed protesters, acknowledging their right to protest while urging them to remain peaceful. He emphasized the importance of non-violence during his visit to the protest ground in Port Harcourt.
The protests paralyzed commercial activities in major cities like Lagos and Ibadan. In Lagos, banks, eateries, fuel stations, and superstores remained closed. Public transportation services, such as the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), were suspended, and only commercial buses operated. Miscreants took advantage of the situation, engaging in illicit activities on major roads.
Security Measures and Public Safety
Special security personnel, tagged CP Tactical Squad, were stationed at key locations like Egbeda Bus Stop in Lagos. Armed special task force and Rapid Response Squad men patrolled the metropolis. Police helicopters conducted surveillance, and Armored Personnel Carrier vehicles were positioned at strategic points to ensure public safety.
The nationwide #EndBadGovernance protests, initially peaceful, have devolved into violence in several states, prompting curfews and heightened security measures. As the situation unfolds, the authorities and citizens grapple with maintaining order while addressing the grievances that sparked the demonstrations.
Source: Vanguard
