Hunger Protests: Police Disperse Attempted Storming of Kano Government House

A large crowd of protesters clashed with police forces on Tuesday as they attempted to storm the Kano State Government House. Demonstrators, armed with placards bearing messages such as “End Bad Governance,” “Bring Back Our Fuel Subsidy,” and “Open the Border,” faced off against security personnel who responded with tear gas and warning shots to disperse the crowd.

The confrontation turned chaotic when some protesters began hurling stones at the police, leading to a violent dispersal. While no fatalities were reported, several individuals sustained injuries in the ensuing stampede, and a number of police officers were hurt by the projectiles.

In the aftermath, authorities have cordoned off all routes leading to the Government House and bolstered security in the area to prevent further disturbances.

The unrest in Kano is part of a broader wave of nationwide protests against economic hardship and poor governance. In Ogun State, a heavy security presence has partially paralyzed commercial activities. Similarly, in Adamawa, protesters have voiced their support for peace and local government autonomy under President Tinubu. Meanwhile, in Borno, a protest was marred by an accidental shooting involving an immigration officer.

In Kogi State, despite a substantial security presence, residents have refrained from joining the protests.

The protests, largely driven by youth and children, have been mostly peaceful, but incidents like the attempted looting of a store on Zoo Road in Kano have heightened tensions. Authorities are on high alert, anticipating further gatherings and potential clashes.

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has extended an invitation to the protest leaders in Kano to present their demands directly to the government. He emphasized the importance of peaceful demonstration and warned against violence.