Despite pleas by the Federal government for Nigerians to be restrained in the August 1 #EndBadGovernance protests, there were pockets of violence in various cities across the country.
Reports from major cities in Nigeria indicate that citizens are not buying into the government’s efforts at stemming the protest, they turned out to make their grievances about high cost of living known. In Abuja and Lagos, the streets were deserted with pockets of protest marches. Police fired tear gas in Abuja to disperse protesters who were attempting to gather at the Eagles Square and others who were gathering near the National Assembly complex.
But in far out Kaduna there were skirmishes between law enforcement agents and some riotous youths who invaded government offices to loot items. The Kaduna State Traffic Law Enforcement Agency offices were set on fire.
In Kano there was also looting of government offices and shops. The newly built and ready for commission Nigeria Communication Commission office in Kano was looted and set ablaze.
In Borno State the government has declared a 24 hours curfew after a bomb went off at market and in Bauchi there were also violent protests as marchers were prevented from moving towards the government house. In Yobe State demonstrators set governments offices and veichles on fire.
Police fired teargas to disperse protesters in Asaba, Delta State where a peaceful march was disrupted by sponsored individuals who were trying to break the protest. More to come
