Following violent outbreaks during protests against the rising cost of living and governance issues in Nigeria, the inspector general of police has placed all police units on red alert and indicated a possible request for military assistance. The protests, inspired by similar youth-led demonstrations in Kenya, were organized under the hashtag “#EndBadGovernanceInNigeria” and were intended to last for ten days.
At least three protesters were killed in Kaduna state on Thursday, according to Reuters reporters and protesters themselves. Amnesty International has reported that 13 protesters have been killed across three northern states, though authorities have not commented on the deaths. The organization has accused security forces of using tactics designed to kill while responding to protests, citing evidence from Niger state, Maiduguri (Borno state capital), and Kaduna.
Major cities, including the capital Abuja and Kano in the north, were calm on Friday following clashes between police and protesters. However, further protests are expected amid widespread discontent over President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms, which have been blamed for exacerbating inflation and weakening the currency. While acknowledging the hardship caused by these reforms, President Tinubu maintains that they are necessary for Nigeria’s long-term economic growth.
In response to the escalating situation, the inspector general of police, Kayode Egbetokun, stated that police forces are fully mobilized and prepared to swiftly address any threats to public order. He also indicated that they are prepared to request assistance from other security agencies, including the military, if necessary.
Kano, a largely Muslim state and one of Nigeria’s most populous, has relaxed a 24-hour curfew imposed after protesters looted a shop and a government complex. Meanwhile, three other states have also implemented curfews in certain areas. Despite the violence, protesters continue to express their frustration with the government’s handling of the economic crisis.
