The Katsina State Government has implemented a 24-hour curfew in Dutsinma Local Government Area following protests that turned violent on Thursday. The decision came after an emergency State Security Council meeting, prompted by reports of civil unrest in parts of the state.
Abdullahi Garba-Faskari, Secretary to the State Government, announced the curfew in a statement signed by Abdullahi Aliyu-Yar’adua, Director of Media at the Secretary’s office. The statement revealed that Acting Governor Faruq Jobe has also prohibited unusual gatherings and all forms of protest across Katsina State.
“The acting governor had earlier received a group of Civil Society Organizations who were on a peaceful demonstration at the Government House and pledged to deliver their messages to the appropriate authority,” Garba-Faskari stated.
He added, “However, later government received reports that some miscreants had hijacked the protest and unleashed their ulterior motives of shop breaking, looting and vandalisation of public and private properties.”
The government’s swift action aims to restore order and protect citizens’ lives and property. Authorities have warned residents to remain calm and law-abiding, stating that security agencies have been instructed to arrest anyone violating the imposed restrictions.
In a related development, the Katsina State Police Command has detained 50 individuals suspected of misconduct during Thursday’s protests. Police Public Relations Officer Abubakar Aliyu confirmed this to reporters, stating, “The state is now relatively calm as the protests have been contained.” Aliyu assured that security measures have been reinforced throughout the state.
While no loss of life was reported, correspondents from the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) observed significant damage to public infrastructure. Youths were seen vandalizing street lights, removing cables, solar panels, and poles. Additionally, there were reports of destruction to drainage systems and culverts, with metal rods being removed.
The protests in Katsina are part of a wider nationwide movement against economic hardship. The Acting Governor has appealed to citizens to continue their legitimate activities within the permitted movement periods, emphasizing the government’s commitment to addressing the concerns raised by peaceful demonstrators.
As tensions remain high, local authorities and security forces are on alert to prevent further escalation of the situation.
(NAN)
