Protest over insecurity turns violent in Kano’s Gwarzo, govt building torched

Tension flared in Gwarzo Local Government Area of Kano State on Sunday as a protest over rising insecurity turned violent, with angry youths allegedly setting a section of the local government secretariat ablaze.

The unrest followed repeated bandit attacks in communities within the area, which residents said had created fear, anxiety and growing frustration among locals.

Eyewitnesses said hundreds of youths stormed major streets in Gwarzo town in a peaceful demonstration earlier in the day, demanding urgent government intervention to curb the worsening security situation.

The protesters were said to have later marched to the local government secretariat, where the protest escalated after some youths reportedly forced their way into parts of the premises.

A section of the building was subsequently set on fire, sending thick smoke into the atmosphere and causing panic among residents and passers-by.

Residents said anger had been mounting in the area following persistent attacks by suspected bandits and what many described as inadequate security response.

One resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the youths were reacting to weeks of fear and uncertainty caused by recurring attacks.

“People are no longer comfortable sleeping in their homes because the attacks have become too frequent. The frustration has been building for a long time,” he said.

Another community member appealed for restraint, warning that destruction of public infrastructure would further compound the crisis facing the area.

He urged authorities to prioritise dialogue and strengthen security operations to restore confidence among residents.

Security operatives were later deployed across the town to restore normalcy and prevent further breakdown of law and order.

Authorities were also said to have commenced investigation into the incident as efforts intensified to contain the situation.