August 02, (THEWILL) – The Police in Sokoto State have arrested 81 protesters for alleged vandalism and looting of government and private properties during Thursday’s nationwide protest against hunger and economic hardship in the state.
The State Commissioner of Police, Ali Hayatu Kaigama, in a statement made available to Journalists on Friday, said the suspects were arrested while unleashing violence on innocent citizens and vandalising government infrastructure in Sokoto metropolis during the peaceful protest that later turned violent.
“In disguise of peaceful protest by the youths, mostly young persons, the protest started in the early hours of today under a very close security watch until around 03:00 pm when it started becoming violent and unruly.
“Billboards in front of Government House and Iron Rail demarcation of some Major roads within the State were vandalised.
“In the quest to maintain law and order within the State and to avoid further breaking of shops and looting of warehouses among other nefarious activities, the Joint Patrol was able to make the arrest,” he said.
The Police Commissioner, however, commended the display of swift action, professionalism and dedication to public safety by the combined security operatives in the state.
Kaigama, while acknowledging the right of the residents to protest, frowned at the destruction of public infrastructures, saying any violent protesters would be arrested and made to face the full wrath of the law.
The CP, who urged the people of the state to avoid any form of criminality during the protest, assured them of adequate security during and after the demonstration.
Tunde Omolehin is an award-winning Journalist with prose in investigative and storytelling that is connecting the dots between the under-reported communities and policymakers to ensure good governance and accountability.
