Death toll rises in Kaduna violence, as government imposes 24-hour curfew

Death Toll Rises In Kaduna Violence, As Govt Imposes 24-Hour Curfew
The Kaduna State government has imposed a 24-hour curfew on Kasuwan Magani in Kajuru Council, following the escalation of violence in the clash between Hausa and Adara youths, which has so far resulted in the death of 35 persons.

Those injured in the clash were been treated at different hospitals in Kaduna metropolis.

The Senior Special Assistant on Media to Governor Nasiru El Rufai, Mr. Samuel Aruwan, who made the announcement yesterday, said the curfew took immediately effect, adding that the decision was taken to prevent the breakdown of law and order.

Kasuwan Magani has been scene of violent religious crises in recent times and the government action might be to prevent a reoccurrence of such violence.

It had witnessed different clashes for some time now, but the recent clash in the community, situated in the southern part of the state, dominated by the native of Adara, reportedly resulted from a disagreement over where traders should to be off-loading their wares for sales during the Thursday market day.

A source said trouble started when a particular man, pretending to be pushing a wheelbarrow, stole some goods and was apprehended by some youths.

Another version said some of the youths were angered by the refusal of some of shop owners to allow them drop their wares in front of their shops, which led to a verbal exchange that resulted in a free for all.

As people took to their heels, some of the youths torched some of the shops, leading to further commotion in the area.

Security operatives, mobilised to avert further breakdown of law and order, shot into the air to disperse the youths.

An eyewitness said two people died during the fracas, but the figures was said to have risen later.

The Public Relations Officer of the state Police Command did not pick his calls or respond to the text message sent to him for confirmation of the incident.