Kaduna protests took a violent turn on Monday as youths and children regrouped, setting fire to a security patrol vehicle and razing a government office.
The Kaduna State Traffic Law Enforcement Agency’s Zaria office was destroyed, and a new generation bank was vandalized.
ASP Mansir Hassan, state police command spokesman, confirmed the incidents, stating that hoodlums broke into the bank, carted away valuables, and destroyed vehicles. He debunked rumors of a police armored personnel carrier being snatched.
The Kaduna State Security Council, led by Governor Uba Sani, imposed a 24-hour curfew due to the hijacking of protests by criminal elements engaging in looting and destruction.
Citizens were advised to remain indoors while security forces maintain safety and security. The curfew will be reviewed as necessary.
Protesters, mainly youths and children, reassembled in the city center, chanting “bama so” and carrying Russian national flags. A protester stated that they were angered by President Bola Tinubu’s failure to announce the return of fuel subsidies.
The unexpected escalation has raised concerns about external influences and the protests’ direction. The Kaduna State Government urged citizens to cooperate with security forces and report suspicious activities.
