The #EndBadGovernance protest in Kaduna State took a tragic turn on Tuesday when a soldier shot and killed a teenager in the Samaru area of Zaria. The 16-year-old, Isma’il Muhammad, was inside his father’s house when the incident occurred as security forces enforced a 24-hour curfew imposed after Monday’s violent protests.
The Director of Army Public Relations, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, confirmed the soldier’s arrest and ongoing interrogation. According to him, the tragedy happened when hoodlums blocked the road and attempted to attack the troops, prompting a warning shot that inadvertently struck Isma’il.
Chief of Army Staff, Lt General Taoreed Lagbaja, expressed deep sorrow over the incident and sent a delegation, led by Major General Lander Saraso, to visit and sympathize with Isma’il’s family.
The curfew was imposed on Kaduna and Zaria by the state government after hoodlums, posing as protesters, looted government and private properties. Some protesters even carried the Russian flag, expressing their frustration over the country’s hardships.
On Tuesday, the Sheikh Abubakar Gumi central market in Kaduna State capital was deserted due to the curfew. Shops, gas stations, and markets remained closed.
On Monday, Samuel Aruwan, the overseeing commissioner of the Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs, stated that the curfew was necessary for peace. Governor Senator Uba Sani declared the curfew after meeting with the State Security Council.
“There is evidence that criminal elements have hijacked the protest, leading to looting and property destruction,” Aruwan said. “The curfew aims to restore order. Citizens are advised to stay indoors while security forces work to ensure safety. The situation will be monitored and reviewed as needed.”
