JUST IN: 6 Protesters Shot Dead by Police

At least six people have been killed and several others injured during an ongoing protest in Suleja, Niger State. The violence erupted as security forces attempted to disperse protesters blocking a section of the Abuja-Kaduna highway.

Reports indicate that the chaos left passengers and motorists stranded for hours, with local police initially overwhelmed by the large number of protesters. Reinforcements were called in, escalating the situation further.

Among the deceased is Yahaya Nda Isah, a resident of Hassan Dalatu Road. Isah was reportedly hit by a stray bullet while riding his bike near the Suleja Police ‘A’ Division, where the protesters had gathered.

A relative of Isah recounted the tragic incident: “He was my uncle. He was not even protesting. He was passing in front of the Police ‘A’ division where some people were protesting when a stray bullet hit him in the chest. He died on the spot. As I speak with you, I am in his house alongside other mourners. It’s unfortunate.”

Another victim, identified as Mallam Abu, also died at the scene. Eyewitnesses reported that three other individuals were shot in the same area, and two more were hit near the Suleja Junction on the Abuja-Kaduna road. The condition of these additional victims remains unconfirmed.

Local resident Bala Abdullahi described the tense atmosphere: “We heard people shouting and gunshots for about 20 minutes at Emir Roundabout. The situation in Suleja is ugly.”

SP Wasiu Abiodun, spokesperson for the Niger State Police Command, reported that some protesters attempted to set the Tafa Local Government Area headquarters on fire but were thwarted by security forces. “The miscreants attempted to set the Tafa LGA ablaze. They were dispersed by the Police and military. Kaduna road and toll gate was cleared,” he stated.

When contacted for further comment, Abiodun said, “Let me verify and get back to you.” No additional response had been received by the time of this report.