August 01, (THEWILL) – Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, has declared a 24-hour curfew in the state following the escalation of the ongoing protests against hardships in the state.
In a statewide broadcast at the Government House on Thursday, the Governor directed all security agencies in the state to “ensure full and immediate compliance” with the curfew.
THEWILL reports that the ongoing protest against hunger and economic hardship in the country turned violent in Kano on Thursday when protesters attacked and looted the newly built Nigeria Communication Commission (NCC) Industrial Park in the State.
Condemning the development, Governor Yusuf said it is “regrettable that the whole protest that was meant to be a demonstration of the democratic right to voice our concerns was hijacked by thugs and hoodlums who embarked on the looting of business premises, government properties and maiming of innocent citizens”.
“Such miscreants have become persistent in wanton destruction of private and public properties aided and by enemies of the state who have been reported to the security agencies a few days back.
“After exhaustive deliberations during an emergency state security council meeting, it was collectively decided that a 24-hour curfew should be put in place to prevent further looting and vandalization of shops, including indiscriminate killing and maiming of innocent citizens.
“On this note therefore and based on the powers conferred on me by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as the Chief Security Officer of the state, I have, therefore, declared a 24-hour curfew in the state with immediate effect.
“Fellow citizens, this action is made to ensure the full protection of your lives and properties as well as protect public assets, places of worship and business premises.
“As we move forward, I urge all citizens to remain vigilant and to continue working together to maintain the peace and harmony we cherish so much.
“Let us not allow the actions of a few selfish individuals and miscreants to divide us or detract us from our shared goals. Together, we can overcome all challenges and build a stronger, more resilient Kano State.
“All security agencies in the State are hereby directed to ensure full and immediate compliance,” the Governor said.
Yusuf commended the “vast majority of peaceful protesters who stated their concerns responsibly”.
