Protests Erupt in Niger State Over Cost of Living Crisis Amid Security Clashes

Youths in Niger State have taken to the streets to protest the ongoing cost of living crisis in Nigeria, despite efforts by both Federal and State governments to prevent the demonstrations. Authorities have expressed concerns that the protests might be hijacked by hoodlums and enemies of democracy.

Protesters were seen chanting anti-government slogans and carrying placards with messages such as “Enough is Enough,” “Stop Anti-Masses Policies,” “We Are Not Slaves In Our Country,” “Hardship Is Unbearable,” and “Fuel Subsidy Must Be Back.”

According to Daily Trust, some protesters on the Abuja-Kaduna expressway declined to speak with journalists who approached them.

Security Forces Clash with Bandits in Niger State

In a separate development, security forces, including military personnel and local vigilantes, have successfully neutralized several bandit groups in Kundu village along the Zungeru-Tegina road within Rafi Local Government Area of Niger State.

The operation, which took place on Wednesday morning, caused widespread panic in the Zungeru Wednesday Market, leading residents to evacuate their homes amidst sustained gunfire.

Sources informed journalists that the bandit groups, traveling in large numbers towards the Akare axis in Wushishi Local Government Area, were ambushed by the military.

A military officer, who wished to remain anonymous, revealed that the army had been monitoring the bandits’ movements based on intelligence that indicated they were following their usual routes. Consequently, the military had set up an ambush to intercept them.