The residents of Kaduna, Kano, and Katsina States on Saturday largely ignored the planned one-million-man protests, continuing their usual public and private activities.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria, In Kaduna, daily life proceeded as normal. Markets, motor parks, and supermarkets remained open, while commercial drivers and motorcyclists were actively transporting passengers.
Security personnel were present to safeguard critical infrastructure, with one security source stating, “We have no issue with anybody as the people are going about their activities lawfully.”
The Kaduna State Government had previously prohibited unverified processions due to safety concerns.
Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Mr. Samuel Aruwan, warned that criminals disguising as protesters will not get chance to unleash terror, loot properties.
He emphasized that, while respecting citizens’ rights to peaceful assembly, security forces would not allow disruptions or criminal activities under the guise of protests.
The public was advised to adhere to the 6 pm to 8 am curfew and report suspicious activities.
Aruwan said, ”Criminals disguising as protesters will not get chance to unleash terror, loot properties, Kaduna Security Council warns.
“The Kaduna State Security Council under the leadership of Governor Uba Sani, has reviewed the present security situation arising from the existing 6 pm to 8 am curfew, and other issues pertaining to public safety.
“Based on this review, the security council hereby announces that criminal elements disguising as protesters, with the intent to generate unrest in the state, will not be spared.”
He added, “The ugly events of Aug 1 to 5, are clear indicators that criminals are pursuing an agenda to plunge the state into chaos, and are ready to camouflage these designs with otherwise genuine protests.
“Available intelligence from the reviewed period also shows the grim focus of these forces in herding children and impressionable individuals into their dark schemes.
“The consequences of these plans, if allowed to flourish, are better imagined. The Kaduna State Government and security forces will not stand by and allow an anti-state agenda to run unchecked, ” Aruwan said.
In Kafanchan and Zaria, residents continued with their normal routines without any sign of protest.
Security operatives were strategically placed around the towns, with heightened security in Zaria due to a passing-out parade at the Nigeria Military School. In Zaria, some locals gathered to pray for rain due to drought conditions.
In Kano, the public’s response was to avoid participating in protests. Local residents such as Alhaji Abdulkadir Yakubu and Hajiya Binta Ishaku expressed their desire for increased military presence to protect businesses from potential looters.
Trader Mr. Royal James suggested engaging in dialogue with the government. Commercial activities were gradually resuming, and the city, despite a curfew from 6 am to 6 pm, was calm.
Markets like Sabon Gari and Singer Market saw increased activity, with police and military personnel ensuring order.
In Katsina, protest organizers adhered to the police and government ban on all protests.
State Police Command Public Relations Officer ASP Abubakar Aliyu confirmed that the ban was in place to prevent violence and maintain public safety.
The initial curfew in Dutsin-ma was adjusted from 24 hours to 7 pm to 7 am, aligning with the other local governments.
Aliyu urged the public to cooperate with security measures and avoid illegal activities, emphasizing that the police would act decisively against any violations.
“We call on the good people of Katsina State to continue to cooperate with the police and other security agencies in this effort.
“Your understanding and compliance are crucial to maintaining the safety and security of the state,” he said.
“We will not hesitate to take decisive action against anyone who violates this ban. Let us work together to ensure peace and stability in Katsina State,” he warned.
In other local governments like Daura and Malumfashi, normal activities continued uninterrupted, supported by ongoing security patrols.
