Kano State Governor Imposes 24-Hour Curfew After Planned Protests Lead To Violence

Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf on Thursday imposed a 24-hour curfew after protesters looted government buildings and businesses.

The governor made this decision during an emergency State Security Council meeting to address the violence and disruptions caused by the #EndBadGovernance protest in the state. The governor's spokesperson Sanusi Bature announced that the curfew would start immediately, Punch reported.

The governor noted that most protesters expressed their concerns peacefully, but the demonstration was taken over by thugs, who looted, destroyed property and harmed innocent people.

He added that these violent actions, reportedly driven by hostile groups, endangered citizens and needed to be dealt with firmly.

"To safeguard lives and preserve public and private property, the decision to implement a curfew was made unanimously during the emergency meeting," the governor said, Premium Times reported. "The imposition of this curfew is a necessary measure to restore order and ensure the safety of our communities."

"It is paramount that we protect our citizens from further harm and preserve the sanctity of our state's institutions and businesses. The governor called on all citizens to remain vigilant and united during this challenging time."

The governor also urged everyone not to let the actions of a few selfish individuals divide them, and emphasized that working together can help overcome these challenges and strengthen Kano.

He then directed all security agencies to enforce the curfew strictly and asked citizens to follow it for their safety and the well-being of everyone.

The Take It Back Movement had come under criticism from Nigeria's police force earlier this week for not providing them with details about the organizers of #EndBadGovernance protest, which started on Aug. 1 and will continue till Aug. 10.

The police have warned that the protests might cause chaos, targeting citizens, businesses and government infrastructure, with Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun adding the name "Take It Back Movement" suggests illegal and undemocratic intentions.

Egbetokun's comments came a day after he held a virtual meeting with key activists and youth leaders across Nigeria, suggesting that they limit the protests to certain locations. The activists rejected his proposal.

Earlier this week, the Catholic Bishops of the Ibadan Ecclesiastical Province urged President Bola Tinubu, state governors and local government leaders to quickly address the severe hunger, high living costs, and ongoing insecurity issues in Nigeria.