kaduna imposes 24hr curfew in major cities amid protest

The Kaduna state government has imposed a curfew as the #EndBadGovernance protests enter their fifth day, with thousands of youths still demonstrating in the streets, calling for an end to perceived bad governance.

Despite some areas of the state returning to normal, the protests persist. Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu’s national address appealing for calm has been criticised by many people for not adequately addressing the underlying issues driving the protests.

In a statement on Monday, Samuel Aruwan, Overseeing Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, justified the curfew as a measure to maintain peace in the state.

He said, “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.”

The protesters are calling for government action to address pressing issues such as inflation, rising cost of living, and other economic concerns.

However, the police response has been criticised for exacerbating the situation through alleged brutality and suppression of demonstrators, further fuelling the protests.