In a tragic turn of events, protests in Maiduguri, Borno, Nigeria have resulted in the deaths of four individuals at the Kime filling station near Bolori junction.
Eyewitnesses reported that the victims were found in pools of blood, with videos of the incident circulating widely on social media. Conflicting accounts suggest the deaths were caused either by stray bullets or an explosion. Baba Musa, a filling station attendant, stated, “It was an explosion that took place and killed four persons instantly, while I managed to escape unhurt.”
Authorities have since imposed a 24-hour curfew in Borno State due to escalating violence, including a bomb blast in Kawuri village, which killed 20 people and injured 16 others. Alhaji Mohammed Kuluwu, Chairman of the Independent Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), confirmed the fatalities at the filling station but could not provide further details.
In Kaduna, a previously peaceful protest against bad governance turned violent, leaving three youths dead and numerous others injured. According to eyewitnesses, the protesters, largely comprised of youths and the unemployed, were marching peacefully towards the Sir Kashim Ibrahim House when they were confronted by security forces using hot water cannons. In the ensuing chaos, three protesters were fatally struck by speeding security vehicles.
One protester recounted, “We were marching peacefully and no one was carrying any offensive weapon. Suddenly, a vehicle came speeding towards us, spraying hot water, and another security vehicle followed. In the confusion, three peaceful protesters were hit and died.”
The protests have caused widespread disruption in Kaduna, with major streets deserted and markets and shops closed. Security forces remain stationed at key locations to prevent further violence. Residents, who engaged in panic buying the previous day, are staying indoors, closely monitoring the situation via local media. Schools and vocational institutions are also closed as a precaution.
