The newly built and yet-to-be commissioned Nigeria Communication Commission (NCC) digital Industrial Park in Kano has been looted by hoodlums amidst a wave of nationwide protests against economic hardship.
A trending video of the attack on the facility corroborated eyewitnesses’ accounts as they described chaotic scenes at the ICT centre where protesters were seen carting away desktop computers, chairs, keyboards, and other valuable appliances before setting the facility on fire.
This was as the supposed nationwide hunger protest tagged #EndBadGovernance commenced on Thursday August 1, 2024 (today) across turned violent in many regions, especially in the Northern part of the country.
In response to the escalating violence, Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf has declared a 24-hour curfew across the state.
“We are deeply concerned by the turn of events and are taking all necessary measures to restore order. I urge all residents to remain indoors as security agencies work to enforce the curfew,” Governor Yusuf said.
The Kano State Police Command has begun cracking down on those responsible for the looting and arson. The police spokesman in the state Abdullahi Kiyawa announced on his Facebook page that several arrests have been made and stolen items recovered.
“We are committed to bringing the perpetrators of these criminal acts to justice. The safety and security of our citizens and property remain our top priority,” Kiyawa said.
The protests, which started as a peaceful demonstration against worsening economic conditions, have taken a violent turn in several cities across the nation.
In many areas, protesters have clashed with security forces, leading to casualties and widespread damage to public and private properties.
As tensions remain high, the government has called for calm, urging the youth to express their grievances through peaceful means rather than resorting to violence and destruction.
