Stop the Looting and Vandalism: Crimes and Acts of Treason
It’s crucial to emphasize that looting and vandalism are criminal activities that undermine the legitimacy of any protest. These acts not only tarnish the cause but also amount to treason against the state and its people.
State Responsibility: Protecting Property and Life
The state has a fundamental duty to safeguard properties and lives during protests. This responsibility extends to ensuring the safety of all citizens, including the security operatives who work tirelessly to maintain order.
Organizer Accountability: Intentional and Responsible Management
Protest organizers must be intentional and responsible in managing the protest. They should be aware that they will be held accountable and could face prosecution if the protest devolves into looting and criminal behavior.
Purpose of the Protest: Demanding Change, Not Destruction
The essence of the protest is to demand change and address bad governance and systemic issues, not to mimic the destructive behaviors of those in power. Destroying property that belongs to our commonwealth is counterproductive and diminishes the impact of the protest.
Message to Gen Z: Use Your Intelligence and Street Sense
To the Gen Z protesters: your intelligence and street sense are vital tools in fighting for your rights and demanding social change. It’s important to channel your energy and passion into peaceful and constructive actions.
Collective Responsibility: Protecting Our Commonwealth
Refrain from looting or destroying government properties, private offices, or shops. These properties are funded by our collective taxes and hard work. Destruction only hurts our community and undermines our collective efforts for change.
Managing the Crisis: Effecting Meaningful Change
Effective crisis management during protests is essential to achieve meaningful outcomes. By maintaining peace and order, we can focus on the core issues and work towards lasting solutions that benefit everyone.
Protests are a powerful tool for advocating for change, but they must be conducted responsibly and peacefully. By avoiding looting and vandalism, we protect our community, uphold the integrity of our cause, and pave the way for genuine progress.
In Kano, the government announced the curfew in a statement issued on Thursday, following reports of vandalism, assault, and looting of private and government properties across the Kano metropolis under the guise of protest.
“This action is meant to ensure the safety of lives and property,” Governor Yusuf emphasized.
The protest, which began peacefully, quickly descended into disorder, prompting the state government to intervene. Governor Yusuf’s declaration mandated that all residents remain indoors for the duration of the curfew.
“All security agencies in the state are hereby directed to ensure full and immediate compliance,” Governor Yusuf declared, assigning law enforcement agents the responsibility of enforcing the curfew and maintaining public order.
The governor also appealed to the public for vigilance and calm, urging citizens to cooperate with authorities during this critical period.
