Chaos in Kano: Hoodlums Hijack Protest, Loot Shops and Offices

Kano, Nigeria – The peaceful #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protest took a chaotic turn on August 1st, 2024, as hoodlums infiltrated the demonstration and began looting shops and offices in the ancient city. The protest, which aimed to voice the grievances of Nigerians against economic hardship and bad governance, quickly descended into violence as opportunistic individuals took advantage of the situation.

The hoodlums targeted various locations, including the newly built Nigeria Communication Commission Industrial Park, setting it ablaze and making off with valuable equipment. The Digital Innovation Park, slated for launch next week by Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, was also looted and set on fire. Public infrastructure such as traffic lights, billboards, and government offices were attacked, with hoodlums setting tyres ablaze and attracting the attention of the police and other security agencies.

The looting and vandalism were not limited to government buildings, as shops and offices were also targeted. Hoodlums were seen moving valuables, including chairs, computers, and other items. The situation escalated to the point where Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf imposed a 24-hour curfew in the state to check the breakdown of law and order.

In response to the violence, Governor Yusuf stated, “It is with heavy hearts that I address you today regarding the unfortunate events in the name of protests, which was hijacked by hoodlums and thugs.” He acknowledged the right to protest but urged the organizers to conduct themselves in an orderly manner.

The incidents of looting and vandalism have raised concerns about the effectiveness of the protest in achieving its intended goals. While the original intention was to express displeasure about the rising cost of living and economic policies, the hijacking of the protest by hoodlums has overshadowed the legitimate grievances of the protesters.

As the situation in Kano remains tense, security forces are working to restore order and prevent further looting and vandalism. The state government has promised to investigate the incidents and bring those responsible to justice.