Curfew imposed in Nigerian state following widespread looting of warehouses and shops

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Authorities in Adamawa state, northeastern Nigeria, have enforced a 24-hour lockdown to prevent residents from leaving their homes in response to extensive looting of shops and warehouses. The decision to declare the curfew was made by Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri on Sunday, following a surge in violence caused by hoodlums attacking both people and businesses in the state capital, Yola. According to a statement from the governor’s spokesperson, the law-breakers not only raided businesses and homes but also assaulted residents while making off with stolen property.

The situation has been further exacerbated by several government policies introduced by Nigerian President Bola Tinubu since he assumed office in late May. These policies have had a detrimental impact on millions of people already struggling with hunger and poverty in Africa’s largest economy. Notably, the government put an end to longstanding gasoline subsidies, leading to a more than doubling of gas prices and subsequently causing a sharp rise in the cost of food and other essential commodities.

Images circulating on social media depict young individuals in Yola fleeing from shops with bags and household items they allegedly looted. In response to the unrest, additional security forces have been deployed to the city, where, as of Monday morning, the situation seemed relatively calm.

The state police command reported that 44 suspects were arrested in connection with Sunday’s unrest, and investigations are underway. The police spokesman, Suleiman Nguroje, stated that items like water pumps and seeds looted from the stores were recovered from the suspects.

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