Protests in Kano State: NCC Office Looted Amid Hunger Demonstrations, Curfew Declared

Protests over widespread hunger and economic hardship erupted in Kano State yesterday, resulting in the looting and vandalism of the National Communications Commission (NCC) office. Protesters forcibly entered the NCC complex, destroying property and stealing valuable equipment and materials. This incident highlights the escalating tensions and violence linked to the ongoing protests across the country.

The protests are part of a larger wave of unrest driven by growing discontent over economic conditions and perceived government ineptitude. The attack on the NCC facility has raised significant concerns about the security of critical infrastructure in the state and the potential for further violent outbreaks.

In response to the unrest, Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf declared a 24-hour curfew to restore order and prevent further violence. The curfew, which took effect immediately, restricts movement and gatherings throughout the state until peace and tranquility are restored. Governor Yusuf emphasized that this measure is necessary to ensure the safety of residents and protect public and private property from further damage.

Additionally, the governor condemned the violence and called for calm, urging protesters to refrain from further destruction of property. He announced the deployment of additional security forces to key locations to enforce the curfew and prevent further incidents. Governor Yusuf also emphasized the state government’s commitment to addressing the root causes of the protests. He pledged to accelerate efforts to provide relief to those affected by the economic downturn and to work on long-term solutions to improve living conditions in the state. Furthermore, he called for dialogue between the government and protest leaders to address their grievances constructively.

Governor Yusuf revealed that his administration had reported those suspected of sponsoring the hoodlums to security agencies. He confirmed that some persons were reportedly killed during the protest, while some thugs went on a rampage, breaking into shops and houses to loot properties. “Under the provisions of the Constitution and the powers vested in me as the Governor of Kano, I hereby order a 24-hour curfew in and around the state, till peace is returned,” he said.

In the midst of the protests, Kano State has also been dealing with political turmoil over the reinstatement of former Emir Sanusi Lamido Sanusi. Despite a court order halting his reinstatement, tensions remain high as various factions continue to clash over the emirate’s leadership. The Federal High Court directed all parties to maintain the status quo pending further hearings, but the situation remains volatile.

Before the August 1 protest, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, a former governor of Kano State, addressed the situation, urging Nigerians to seek change through democratic means rather than protests. He emphasized the importance of using the ballot to address governance issues, warning that protests often escalate into violence, leading to loss of lives and destruction of property.

As Kano State grapples with these dual crises, authorities are on high alert, and efforts are being made to restore order and protect critical infrastructure from further attacks. The events of August 1 underscore the urgent need for addressing the underlying issues driving the unrest to ensure long-term stability and peace in the region.