In Suleja, Niger State, six individuals have reportedly been killed and several others injured during a protest.
The incident occurred when security forces attempted to disperse a group of demonstrators who had blocked a section of the Abuja-Kaduna highway.
According to reports from *Daily Trust*, the blockade led to significant traffic disruptions, trapping passengers and motorists for hours.
The initial police presence was overwhelmed by the protesters, prompting the deployment of additional security personnel to the scene, where chaos ensued.
Among the casualties was Yahaya Nda Isah, a resident of Hassan Dalatu Road, Suleja. Isah was struck by a stray bullet while riding his bike near the Suleja Police ‘A’ Division, where the protesters had gathered. According to a family member, Isah was hit in the chest and died instantly.
The situation underscores the tense atmosphere and the challenges faced by security forces in managing public protests.
“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 stray Bullet hit him on his chest and he died. As I speak with you, I am in his house alongside other mourners. It’s unfortunate”, he said.
Another victim was simply identified as Mallam Abu also said died on the spot.
One of the residents who did not want his name mentioned told Daily Trust that 3 other people were shot at the same scene while 2 others were shot at the Suleja Junction on Abuja-Kaduna road but could not confirm if other victims were dead.
Another resident who said his shop was not far from the Suleja Police “A” division said he had to close to run for his life.
“We heard people shouting and gunshots were heard for about 20 minutes at Emir Roundabout. The situation in Suleja is ugly”, Bala Abdullahi, another resident.
Spokesperson of the Niger State Police Command, SP Wasiu Abiodun, said some hoodlums also attempted to set the Tafa LGA ablaze but they were dispersed by security operatives.
“The miscreants attempted to set the Tafa LGA ablaze, they were dispersed by the Police and military. Kaduna road and toll gate was cleared”, he said.
When contacted over the phone, Wasiu Abiodun, Police Public Relations Officer in Niger, said, “Let me verify and get back to you.”
However, he had not sent his response as of the time of filing this report.
