
A planned protest set for October 1 in Kano by the Nigerian Patriotic Front Movement (NPFM) was halted on Tuesday after the reported arrest of five key officials, according to sources from *Punch*.
The NPFM had previously announced its intention to lead a peaceful demonstration against the rising economic hardship in the country. However, the protest was derailed following the arrest of the group’s leaders by the police, leaving the city quiet on the day of the planned event.
In anticipation of possible unrest, many Kano residents chose to stay indoors, with businesses, including markets and shops, shutting down for the day. Armed security personnel were stationed at key locations across the city to maintain peace, while only a few vehicles were seen on the streets.
Residents expressed concerns about the potential for violence, citing memories of the #EndBadGovernance protests, which saw incidents of looting and destruction of property. “People have learned from the last protest and decided to stay home to avoid any surprises,” a local resident told *Punch Online*.
The heavy police presence and the shutdown of businesses reflected the lingering fears of disorder despite the protest being called off.
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