A curfew has been imposed in Kano, Nigeria’s second-largest state, following protests against the high cost of living. The governor’s office stated that the demonstrations were “hijacked by thugs,” resulting in widespread looting and property destruction.
Kano witnessed the largest crowds on the first day of nationwide protests, which forced many businesses to close. Demonstrators in major cities chanted slogans such as “We are hungry.” In Kano city, police used live bullets, tear gas, and hot water to disperse thousands of protesters. Four people were reported wounded and taken to hospital.
Earlier, protesters set tyres ablaze in front of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s house. Looters broke into a nearby warehouse, with people seen carrying away cooking oil and mattresses.
The curfew effectively halts further protests, requiring all residents to remain at home. Kano state’s population was 9.4 million in the 2006 census, with unofficial current estimates around 20 million.
These protests, planned for 10 days and organized via social media, were inspired by recent successful demonstrations in Kenya. In Abuja, Nigeria’s capital, a court ordered protesters to remain at the National stadium on the city’s outskirts. However, demonstrators attempted to move into the city center, prompting police to use tear gas.
In Lagos, Nigeria’s economic hub, protesters shouted “ole” (thief in Yoruba) in reference to President Bola Tinubu and his government. Many are angered by Tinubu’s removal of fuel subsidies in May 2023, which aimed to cut government expenditure but led to increased fuel prices and broader economic impacts.
Protesters are demanding the reversal of the subsidy removal decision and calling for reforms to the country’s electoral system and judiciary. The government had previously appealed for patience, but demonstrators like Lagos protester Kingsley Uadiale dismissed this, citing plans to purchase new planes for the president and vice president.
Activist Dabiraoluwa Adeyinka stated that if the government doesn’t yield to their demands, the protests will continue.
