The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has arrested 32 individuals in Kano for acts of vandalism during ongoing nationwide protests against bad governance. The agency has heightened security measures, placing all Zonal Commanders, Heads of Formations, and State Commandants across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on red alert.
NSCDC spokesperson Babawale Afolabi released a statement on Friday, explaining that the protests, initially peaceful, have escalated into violence and destruction in several states. The Commandant General of the NSCDC, Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, mni, OFR, expressed concern about the attacks on security forces and damage to public and private property.
Audi noted that warnings had been issued to demonstrators against engaging in violent activities. He lamented the situation, highlighting that many protest organizers were absent, allowing disorderly elements to exploit the unrest.
Reports indicated that severe clashes occurred in states including Kaduna, Kano, Yobe, and Gombe, with injuries to officers and damage to NSCDC vehicles. In Kano, NSCDC operatives arrested 32 suspects in locations such as Sabo Gari and Murtala Mohammed Way, where protesters were looting goods.
The NSCDC has vowed to uphold order, with Acting Deputy Commandant General Operations, Phillip Ayuba, emphasizing the importance of professionalism and civility in handling the protests. He warned that violent acts would not be tolerated and that offenders would face legal consequences.
