After the presence of massive crowds participating in the nationwide economic hardship protests, the Kaduna State Security Council has imposed a 24-hour curfew on Kaduna and Zaria cities.
On Monday, more protesters poured into the streets, armed with cudgels, tree branches and Russian flags and calling on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to quit.
They erected bonfires and invaded buildings while chanting anti-government slogans.
More protesters have also been spotted waving Russian flags in Kaduna and Abuja.
Thousands of protesters, mostly children, charged through deserted streets in Barnawa — beating drums and waving the flags.
In a statement released on Monday, the State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Samuel Aruwan, said there was sufficient evidence to show that criminal minds had hijacked the protest and have resorted to looting shops and destroying public and private properties.
‘’Kaduna State Security Council Imposes 24 hour curfew on Kaduna and Zaria Metropolitan Cities
“The Kaduna State Security Council under the leadership of Governor Uba Sani, following a review of the security situation in the State, hereby notifies citizens of the following:
- There is sufficient evidence to clearly indicate that the ongoing protest has been hijacked by criminal elements who have resorted to looting of shops and destruction of private and public property.
- In view of this unfortunate development, the Kaduna State Security Council has unanimously resolved to impose a 24-hour curfew on Kaduna and Zaria Metropolises and environs with immediate effect.
- Citizens are advised to remain indoors while security forces continue to work to maintain safety and security.
- Monitoring will be sustained for review of the curfew as required.”
