Nigerian police are on red alert and may request military assistance following violent protests against the rising cost of living and governance issues, according to Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun.
Reuters reporters and protesters reported at least three demonstrators killed in northern Kaduna state on Thursday. Amnesty International claimed on Friday that at least 13 protesters had been killed across three northern states, though authorities have not confirmed any deaths.
While major cities like Abuja and Kano appeared calm on Friday following clashes between police and protesters, further demonstrations are anticipated due to widespread anger over President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms.
Inspector General Egbetokun stated late Thursday that police are fully mobilized and prepared to respond swiftly to any further threats to public order. He added that the police are equipped to handle the situation but may seek assistance from other security agencies, including the military, if necessary.
The “#EndBadGovernanceInNigeria” protests, inspired by youth-led demonstrations in Kenya, have been organized online with plans to continue for 10 days.
Amnesty International accused security forces of deliberately using lethal tactics in Niger state, Maiduguri (capital of Borno state), and Kaduna. A Nigerian police spokesperson did not immediately respond to requests for comment on these allegations.
Kano state has relaxed a 24-hour curfew imposed after protesters looted a shop and a government complex. Three other states have also implemented curfews in some areas.
President Tinubu acknowledges the pain caused by his reforms, which have fueled inflation and weakened the currency, but maintains they are necessary for Nigeria’s long-term economic growth.
The situation remains tense as authorities attempt to balance public order with citizens’ right to protest against economic hardships.
