The Niger State Police Command has apprehended a 30-year-old woman, Aisha Jibrin, along with two other women and 22 additional individuals, following a mass protest in Minna, the state capital, on Monday. The demonstration was sparked by grievances over the escalating cost of living in the region.
The protest, led by Aisha and joined by women and youths, unfolded on Monday, as demonstrators converged on Minna-Bida Road at the prominent Kpakungu Roundabout. They voiced concerns about the pervasive hardship experienced under the administration of Bola Tinubu.
Despite the deployment of police forces to the scene, the protesters persisted, asserting that law enforcement represented government interests. The Niger State Police Command, however, claimed the protesters turned violent, allegedly attacking officers with various weapons and causing damage to police vehicles and property.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abiodun Wasiu, acknowledged the use of minimal force by law enforcement to disperse the crowd. He further alleged that the protesters escalated the situation by engaging in violent behavior.
According to the statement, Aisha Jibrin, Fatima Aliyu (57), and Fatima Isyaku (43), along with others, were arrested. The police reported seizing weapons including knives, a cutlass, sticks, and substances believed to be Indian hemp.
During interrogation, Aisha claimed ignorance of the illegality of her actions, stating she had notified a local youth leader, Hassan, who allegedly failed to inform the authorities of the planned protest.
The Commissioner of Police, Niger State Command, Shawulu Danmamman, emphasized the importance of adhering to the law and discouraged vigilantism. He urged residents to channel grievances through appropriate channels rather than resorting to unlawful means.
All suspects have been detained at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Minna for further investigation and will face prosecution. Efforts are underway to apprehend other individuals involved in the protest.