One reportedly killed as Kano protesters block highway, burn LG secretariat over bandit attacks

At least one person was reportedly killed on Sunday after protesters shut down the Kano-Katsina highway at the Dayi-Gwarzo axis over persistent bandit attacks, extortion, and worsening insecurity affecting communities along the border areas.

The protest reportedly broke out between noon and 1pm at the boundary between Gwarzo LGA in Kano state and Malumfashi LGA in Katsina state. Demonstrators mounted barricades, chanted slogans, and prevented travellers from using the major interstate road, leaving hundreds of motorists and commuters stranded.

The situation later escalated when security operatives deployed to disperse the protesters allegedly fired warning shots, during which one protester was reportedly hit by accidental gunfire. Authorities were still trying to verify the casualty and determine the security unit involved as of the time of reporting.

Abdullahi Kiyawa, spokesperson of the Kano police command, said security agencies were engaging community leaders to calm tensions.

“We are engaging with the community,” he said, adding that consultations with stakeholders were ongoing.

Residents and travellers said the protest was triggered by repeated attacks in Lakwoya, a border community in Gwarzo LGA, where armed bandits recently killed three people, destroyed property, extorted residents, and rustled livestock.

Angry residents reportedly marched from Lakwaya to the Gwarzo local government headquarters to demand improved security. The protest later turned violent after demonstrators, dissatisfied with the response from the council chairman, set the LG secretariat on fire.

Fear spread across Gwarzo town as businesses shut down and many residents fled the area.

“Everyone is locking up because nobody knows what will happen next,” a stranded commuter said. “The protesters feel they have nothing left to lose, but those of us with businesses here are terrified.”

A youth leader at the protest blamed the unrest on repeated attacks and alleged government neglect.

“Yesterday alone, they came and killed three of our people,” he said. “For the past week, these criminals have been attacking us regularly in broad daylight. They ride into our neighbourhoods on motorcycles, operate with complete impunity, and steal our livestock in large numbers.”

Residents also accused security agencies of responding slowly to distress calls.

“A thief will come to your doorstep at four in the afternoon to steal cattle, and when you call for help, nobody shows up until 8:00 p.m.,” one resident said. “We can no longer go to our farms or protect our schools. We are being starved in our own communities.”

Community leaders warned that the blockade on the Dayi-Gwarzo route could continue until stronger security measures, including permanent military checkpoints, are introduced.