The busy streets of Kano have been deserted and schools, government offices, among other business places, have been closed down due to the 24- hour curfew imposed by the state government.
This is coming as a result of brewing tension following the Governorship Election Petition Tribunal verdict held on Wednesday which sack the sitting Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), and declared Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna of the All Progressive Congress (APC) as winner of the 2023 governorship election.
It was observed that there has been a heavy presence of tight security operatives in and around Kano metropolis are at a standstill. Activities in the ever busy state capital have been on its lowest level as residents were seen sitting at their respective homes.
It can be recalled that the Kano State Government had declared a 24-hour curfew in the state shortly after the judgement was delivered in an effort to bring the security situation under control and to avert any eventualities that may occur.
The curfew imposed a few hours after the judgment declaration has forced many people to abruptly close their businesses and run back home for fear of the unknown.
However, residents have begun to relate the aftermath of the curfew to their daily lives, while few welcome the government’s position. Many viewed it as uncalled for considering the present economic situation in the country. Aminu Buhari is a restaurant owner along Zoo road in Kano metropolis and according to him he had lost a huge sum of money as a result of the curfew declaration. According to him, it will take him a long period before he regains his losses.
Similarly, a commercial bus driver said the curfew had forced him to remain at home even though he has an urgent financial commitment that requires spending money. He explained that with the curfew in place he had to suspend everything and wait for time.
“I can only attend to my financial need through driving this bus, and now that I have to wait at home, how would I cope with the situation that requires my attention. I pray that this curfew will only be for today. Indicators have shown that the state has returned to its normal stage, no more threat to safety,” he said.
