The Kano State police command has confirmed the arrest of 392 individuals suspected of participating in the looting of the NCC Industrial Park and other key locations during the nationwide protest against hunger and hardship in Kano State on Thursday. The arrests were made in connection with widespread looting and vandalism that erupted across the state, including an attack on the Kano High Court.
Speaking at a press briefing on Friday, the police spokesman in Kano, Abdullahi Kiyawa, provided details about the arrests and the recovery of a significant number of stolen items. Kiyawa disclosed that the suspects were apprehended with a variety of stolen goods in their possession, which were identified as exhibits in the ongoing investigation.
The unrest in Kano, which mirrored the chaotic scenes witnessed in other parts of the country, took a particularly destructive turn at the newly constructed NCC Industrial Park. The park, which was poised for commissioning next week, became a target for looters who ransacked the facility before setting it ablaze. The ICT centre within the park, a symbol of technological advancement and economic opportunity for the state, was heavily damaged during the turmoil.
Eyewitnesses described the chaotic scenes that unfolded at the ICT centre. According to accounts, groups of protesters stormed the facility, brazenly carting away desktop computers, chairs, keyboards, and other valuable equipment.
The situation quickly spiraled out of control as the looters set the facility on fire, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake. The extent of the damage is still being assessed, but the loss is expected to be significant, given the strategic importance of the centre to Kano’s economic development.
In the wake of the violence, Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf took decisive action to prevent further escalation. On Thursday, the governor declared a 24-hour curfew across the state, a move aimed at restoring order and curbing the spread of the unrest. Governor Yusuf expressed deep concern over the situation and emphasized the importance of maintaining peace during these challenging times.
“We are deeply concerned by the turn of events and are taking all necessary measures to restore order,” Governor Yusuf stated in an address to the people of Kano. “I urge all residents to remain indoors as security agencies work to enforce the curfew. The safety and security of our people are our top priorities, and we will not tolerate any further acts of violence or vandalism.”
The decision to impose a curfew underscores the gravity of the situation in Kano, where tensions remain high following the violent protests. Security forces have been deployed across the state to enforce the curfew and prevent further incidents. The governor’s appeal for calm and cooperation reflects the state government’s determination to restore normalcy and ensure the safety of its citizens.
The events in Kano are a stark reminder of the volatile mood in parts of the country, where economic hardships have fueled widespread discontent. The looting and destruction of public and private property are indicative of the deep frustrations felt by many, though the actions of a few have been widely condemned for undermining the broader goals of peaceful protest.
As Kano State authorities work to restore order and rebuild, the focus will likely shift to addressing the underlying issues that sparked the protests in the first place. Governor Yusuf’s administration faces the dual challenge of maintaining public safety while also addressing the economic concerns that have driven people to the streets. The coming days will be crucial in determining whether the state can navigate this crisis and emerge stronger, with a renewed commitment to addressing the needs of its citizens.
