The burning of tyres, the destruction of the pavement wire separating dualized Ahmadu Bello Way and Sokoto Road, and the involvement of numerous underage participants, characterised the initially peaceful hunger protest in Sokoto state.

Vehicular movement and commercial motorcycle activity significantly decreased compared to pre-protest levels.

The road leading to the Sultan’s palace was overtaken by protesting youths, forcing motorists to find alternative routes.

Traders in the Sokoto central market refused to open their stalls and shops out of fear of looting or vandalism by miscreants.

The Nation observed that the destruction was allegedly carried out by miscreants exploiting the nationwide hunger protest.

The fence, constructed by the state government to control traffic violations and beautify the metropolitan areas, was damaged.

However, swift action by joint security operatives managed to control the situation and prevent further destruction, with personnel maintaining a presence at other locations along the fence.

By 2 pm, the protest had spread throughout the state capital, affecting areas such as Mabera, Marina, Emir Yahaya, Area Commander, U/Rogo, Gidan Man Ada, and the Sokoto-Birnin road. Reports indicated that protesting youths were burning tyres along the Sultan Abubakar International Airport road.

The Nation reveals that quite a sizeable number of under-aged, comprising boys and girls were noticed roaming the streets with leaves chanting, “We are fed up with this government, we need food, we need a change of life” as they kept moving along a retinue of bikers displaying all kinds of cycling styles while many were being attracted to join.

Little, Abdullahi, a primary 3 pupil was also part of the protest chanting slogans along with his Sister, Maryam, 12, who told The Nation that they joined because their parent could not feed them as they used to.

“My father is a carpenter and finds it difficult to get what eats on a daily basis. When I heard of this protest, I told my younger brother that we should join since it is peaceful and decided to. I pray our leaders will see reasons with us (the poor and less privileged) and do the needful”, she said with tears on her cheek. (The Nation)

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