Kano, Nigeria – A tense situation unfolded at the Kano Government House as protesters, rallying against economic hardships, set up a bonfire amidst escalating violence across the city. The demonstration, which drew participants from various parts of Kano, turned chaotic as protesters anticipated an address from Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf.
As the crowd neared the Government House gate, a faction of protesters piled tyres and ignited them, resulting in a clash with security forces. The situation quickly escalated, with security personnel responding by firing gunshots and teargas to disperse the crowd. The ensuing chaos caused protesters to scatter in various directions.
Governor Yusuf had earlier cautioned against potential disruptions, stating on Wednesday that he had received intelligence about plans to hijack the protest for violent ends. He had invited peaceful demonstrators to the Government House but sternly warned those with disruptive intentions to avoid the area.
The unrest in Kano is part of a broader wave of protests across Nigeria, where citizens are demanding better governance in response to the country’s deteriorating economic situation.