Katsina government prohibits protests and ‘unusual gatherings’ implements curfew

On Thursday, the Katsina State Government declared a ban on protests and instituted a curfew from 7:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. across 33 local government areas, with a 24-hour curfew in Dutsin-Ma Local Government Area.

Secretary to the State Government Hon. Abdullahi Garba Faskari issued a statement detailing that Acting Governor Malam Faruk Jobe also banned unusual gatherings and all forms of protests statewide. This action followed an Emergency State Security Council meeting convened due to disturbances related to the ongoing nationwide hunger protests.

According to Chief Press Secretary Malam Abdullahi Yar’adua, the state government had received reports of protests being taken over by certain individuals, resulting in shop break-ins, looting, and damage to both public and private property.

The statement explained that these measures were deemed essential to safeguard lives and property. Previously, the Acting Governor had met with Civil Society Organisations holding a peaceful demonstration at the Government House, assuring them that their concerns would be relayed to the relevant authorities.

Residents are advised to remain calm and follow the law, as security agencies are directed to arrest those who breach these orders. The Acting Governor also encouraged the public to carry out their legitimate activities during the designated free movement times.

Reports that the nationwide #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protest in Katsina on August 1 became violent when police used tear gas against the demonstrators.

The police operatives’ actions sparked a violent backlash from the protesters, who responded by rioting, torching an operational vehicle belonging to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and engaging in looting.

It was gathered that violence erupted when different protest groups converged at the Modoji Road roundabout near Government House, Katsina, and attempted to force their way into the premises to meet the Acting Governor but were resisted by security operatives.

The violence led to several protesters and three policemen sustaining injuries.

The mob which attempted to break into the residence of the former number one citizen said they were fed up with the economic situation of the country.

Some angry youths also reportedly headed for the palace of the Emir of Daura, Alhaji Farouk Umar Farouk.

One of them was reportedly shot in the leg by security operatives who were trying to disperse them.