August 01, (THEWILL) – The nationwide protest against hunger and economic hardship turned violent on Thursday, as the joint security operatives, comprising the police and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), reportedly killed three people and injured several others at Kime Filling Station, Bolori Junction, in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital.
Sources at the filling station, who identified the deceased as staff, gave separate accounts of how the three persons died, adding that others suffered various degrees of injuries.
“As I’m speaking to you, they are still lying in the pool of their blood. The security operatives attacked us and threw grenades at us. Unfortunately, we lost three persons instantly,” said an eyewitness who identified himself as Muhammad.
He confirmed that he was with the victims before the explosion, adding that he “nearly got affected but as God would have it, I escaped unhurt”.
Another source, who pleaded anonymity, said the deceased were hit by stray bullets from the passing anti-riot security convoy.
“I was opposite the filling station when the incident happened and I didn’t hear any blast, we just heard sporadic gunshots and the boys were down. Four of them died instantly,” he alleged.
Meanwhile, a curfew has been declared by the Borno State Police Command, citing a bomb blast that took place in Kawuri Village, Konduga Local Government Area of the state, which claimed 16 lives as the reason.
A statement issued on Thursday, by the Command said the curfew was declared by Borno State Governor, Babagana Umar Zulum, in consultation with heads of security agencies in the state.
Kenneth Daso, the Police Public Relations Officer, called on the people of the State to remain calm and law-abiding, assuring that further developments would be communicated accordingly.
The curfew, he said, was part of efforts to restore law and order in the state, adding that the Police and other relevant security agencies are working to ensure the safety of lives and properties.
He advised residents to stay indoors and avoid any unnecessary movements during the curfew.
