Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun addressed journalists on Thursday, revealing extensive damage caused by protesters on the first day of the hunger protests. The protests, sparked by rising hardship in Nigeria, saw significant violence and destruction across several states.
IGP Egbetokun reported that the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, along with Kano, Kaduna, Borno, Niger, Yobe, Jigawa, Gombe, and Bauchi, experienced severe unrest. Hoodlums took advantage of the situation, resulting in widespread chaos and property damage.
During his address, Egbetokun highlighted the severity of the destruction, noting attempts to take over government houses and the looting of government infrastructure.
“The destruction so far has been mind-boggling,” he said, emphasizing the scale of the damage. The violence did not only target public buildings but also private properties. Several warehouses and shops were looted and, in many cases, completely destroyed.
“There has been destruction in Kano, Borno, Yobe, Kaduna, Gombe, Bauchi, FCT Abuja, Niger, Jigawa. Police stations have been destroyed, there have been attempts to take over government houses, looting of government infrastructures, several warehouses and shops have so far been looted and, in several instances, destroyed,” he stated.
IGP Egbetokun warned against using the protests as an excuse to incite anarchy. He urged citizens to exercise their rights responsibly and to avoid actions that could further destabilize the nation. He appealed for calm and cooperation from the public to help restore order and ensure safety during this turbulent time.
“We appeal to all citizens to remain calm and cooperate with the Police and other security agencies during this challenging period,” he said.
