The city of Sokoto remained quiet on Friday, with a heavy security presence visible throughout the metropolis following Thursday’s protests that resulted in vandalism of government properties. The calm comes on the second day of nationwide demonstrations against rising food costs and alleged poor governance.
Eyewitnesses report that no protesters were seen on the streets of Sokoto on Friday, a stark contrast to the large gatherings observed the previous day. Instead, security forces, including the Nigerian Army, have been strategically positioned across the city to prevent further unrest.
Local resident Abubakar Mohammed told reporters, “The streets are much quieter today. We can see police and soldiers at major intersections and government buildings.”
The economic impact of the protests was evident as the city’s main market remained closed, with only small stalls outside the main entrance operating. Banks and other corporate organizations also kept their doors shut, likely as a precautionary measure against potential attacks by opportunistic individuals.
At the Sultan’s Palace, where a large group of protesters had assembled on Thursday, a contingent of security personnel, including army units, was stationed at the entrance.
DSP Sanusi Abubakar, the Police Public Relations Officer for Sokoto State, stated, “We have deployed adequate personnel to maintain peace and order. We urge citizens to go about their lawful activities without fear.”
The protests, which began on Thursday, are part of a larger nationwide movement against rising food prices and what demonstrators describe as government mismanagement. Nigeria, Africa’s largest economy, has been grappling with record inflation, currency devaluation, and widespread insecurity, factors that have contributed to increased hardship for many citizens.
As the situation continues to unfold, local authorities have called for calm and dialogue. The Sokoto State government has yet to release an official statement regarding the protests or the damage incurred on Thursday.
