In a tragic turn of events, at least six people have been reportedly killed and several others injured during ongoing protests in Suleja, Niger State.
The violence erupted as security operatives attempted to disperse protesters who had blocked a section of the Abuja-Kaduna highway.
Reports indicate that passengers and motorists were stranded for hours due to the blockade. Initial efforts by local police to control the situation were ineffective as they were vastly outnumbered by the protesters.
Reinforcement teams were eventually dispatched to the scene, leading to further chaos and casualties. Among those killed was Yahaya Nda Isah, a resident of Hassan Dalatu Road, Suleja, who was struck by a stray bullet while riding his bike in front of the Suleja Police ‘A’ Division, where the protesters had gathered.
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A relative of the deceased recounted the incident, stating, “He was my uncle. He was not even protesting. He was passing in front of the Police ‘A’ Division where some people were protesting when a stray bullet hit him on the chest and he died. As I speak with you, I am in his house alongside other mourners. It’s unfortunate.”
Another victim, identified as Mallam Abu, also died on the spot. Witnesses reported that three additional people were shot at the same location, while two others were shot at Suleja Junction on the Abuja-Kaduna road. The exact number of fatalities among these victims remains unconfirmed.
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The unrest has left the community in a state of fear and turmoil. A local shopkeeper near the Suleja Police ‘A’ Division described how he had to close his shop and flee to ensure his safety. “We heard people shouting and gunshots for about 20 minutes at Emir Roundabout. The situation in Suleja is ugly,” said Bala Abdullahi, another resident.
In a related incident, the spokesperson of the Niger State Police Command, SP Wasiu Abiodun, reported that some hoodlums attempted to set the Tafa Local Government Area ablaze but were dispersed by security operatives.
The protest and subsequent violence highlight the escalating tensions and challenges faced by authorities in maintaining order and safety in the region.