Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf has declared an immediate 24-hour curfew following a wave of violence and looting that swept through the state on Thursday. The decision came after an emergency State Security Council meeting convened to address the escalating unrest stemming from the #EndBadGovernance protests.
Sanusi Bature, the governor’s spokesperson, released a statement regarding the curfew implementation. Governor Yusuf emphasized that although most demonstrators expressed their grievances peacefully, the protest had been hijacked by criminal elements.
“The imposition of this curfew is a necessary measure to restore order and ensure the safety of our communities,” Governor Yusuf stated.
He added, “It is paramount that we protect our citizens from further harm and preserve the sanctity of our state’s institutions and businesses.”
The governor acknowledged that the majority of protesters had conducted themselves responsibly. However, he noted that opportunistic thugs and hoodlums had exploited the situation, engaging in widespread looting and destruction of both government buildings and private businesses.
“To safeguard lives and preserve public and private property, the decision to implement a curfew was made unanimously during the emergency meeting,” the governor explained.
He emphasized that the violent actions, allegedly instigated by antagonistic elements, posed a significant threat to public safety and security, necessitating a robust response.
Governor Yusuf called for unity among Kano State residents during this turbulent period.
He said, “Let us not allow the actions of a few selfish individuals to divide us, together, we can navigate these challenges and fortify our resolve to build a stronger, more resilient Kano State.”
The statement indicated that all security agencies in the state have been instructed to ensure full compliance with the curfew. Citizens are strongly advised to adhere to this directive for their own safety and the well-being of the community at large.