Kaduna imposes curfew to stop protest in southern area

The Kaduna State government has imposed a curfew in some parts of the southern zone of the state to forestall a breakdown of law and order.

There had been killings and violence in the past months, which incensed the natives to embark on the peaceful protest.Last week, five persons were allegedly killed in Kachira village in Kaura Local Government Area, and 15 persons also killed in Ungwan Rana, Gadani village, Gwagwada district of Chikun Local Government Area, in attacks by suspected herdsmen.

The protesters in thousands in a long solemn procession were carrying placards, waving green leaves, urging the state government to arrest the violence in the area.

However, the protest, which started as early as 8: 00 a.m. yesterday turned into a brawl when non-natives, who seemed opposed to the protest allegedly challenged them. Though no life was lost, many sustained injuries.

The youths dispersed to different areas and set bonfire around 10: 00 a.m., letting off thick smoke causing pandemonium in the town.

By 10: 00a.m. armed mobile policemen who were deployed started firing teargas into the crowd, eventually dispersing them.As at the time of writing this report, more trucks of armed policemen were seen moving into the troubled area.

Speaking on phone from Kafanchan, the Chairman of Kaura Council Area, Mr. Alex Musa Iya confirmed that the Chairman of Jema’a LGA, Humble Katuka and himself had to “restrict movement” for now due to the security situation.

He said: “It is true that chairman of Jema’a LGA has declared a 24-hour curfew in the entire Jema’a LGA, with emphasis on Kafanchan. After studying the situation, I thought it expedient to also restrict movement in Kaura for 24 hours due to its proximity to the two areas.”