Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State has declared a 24-hour curfew across the state and in the Zaria metropolis in response to protests that escalated into violence.
The curfew, announced by the State Commissioner of Internal Security and Home Affairs, Samuel Aruwan, comes after protests against hunger and economic hardship were reportedly hijacked by criminal elements, leading to widespread looting and destruction of property.
In an official statement released on Monday, Aruwan detailed the reasons for the government’s decision. “The Kaduna State Security Council, under the leadership of Governor Uba Sani, after a thorough review of the security situation, has resolved to impose a 24-hour curfew on Kaduna and Zaria metropolises and surrounding areas with immediate effect,” the statement read.
The statement further emphasized the severity of the situation: “There is clear evidence that the ongoing protest has been taken over by criminal elements who have resorted to looting shops and destroying both private and public property.”
In light of these developments, citizens have been urged to remain indoors as security forces work to restore order. The curfew will remain in effect until further notice, with authorities closely monitoring the situation for any necessary adjustments.