JUST IN: Scores feared killed as protesters, security forces engage in deadly clash in Kano

In Kano, a violent confrontation between security forces and protesters has resulted in multiple fatalities and injuries.

The most affected areas include Rijiyar Lemo, Kurna, Bachirawa, Kofar Nassarawa, and Unguwa Uku.

Witnesses report that the clash began when a group of youths defied the state’s curfew and took to the streets to continue a nationwide protest, which has recently seen increased violence in the region. Abdulkadir Musa, a local resident, revealed that at least eight individuals, including women and children, were shot in Rijiyar Lemo. An elderly woman and three others have been confirmed dead, with many more injured.

The unrest intensified when protesters, allegedly using the hunger protests as a cover, attempted to loot various businesses, including a yogurt shop. Security forces intervened, leading to further violence. Reports indicate that a Divisional Police Officer was injured during the clash, though this has not been independently verified.

Victims of the shooting are currently being treated at Salamatu Hospital. Social media has seen an outpouring of grief, with posts mourning the deaths and criticizing the police response. Aiha K Nass shared a post about the death of her brother, while Omar Khalid Saleh criticized the police’s handling of the protests, accusing them of exacerbating the situation.

Security forces have set up checkpoints and deployed mobile police units to manage the situation, especially around Kurna Asabe near Bukavu Army Barracks. Attempts to contact police spokesperson Abudullahi Haruna Kiyawa for comment have been unsuccessful.