Tensions flared in Rano Local Government Area of Kano State on Monday following the death of a young man, Abdullahi Musa, in police custody, a development that sparked violent protests and led to the Rano Divisional Police Headquarters being set ablaze.
Abdullahi, who was arrested for an alleged traffic violation, reportedly died during police interrogation. Eyewitnesses allege that the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), identified as Baba Ali, severely beat the young man, which ultimately led to his death.
“He was not a criminal. He was picked up for a traffic matter. People are angry because he died while in the custody of those meant to protect him,” a resident of Rano said.
Outrage over his death quickly spread, prompting local youths to stage a protest at the police station. The demonstration, initially peaceful, escalated after officers allegedly opened fire to disperse the crowd, leaving two protesters injured and hospitalized.
In response, protesters retaliated by throwing stones at the officers and eventually overran the station, setting it on fire. The DPO reportedly sustained serious injuries during the chaos.
“We saw them dragging the DPO away after he was injured. Things had already gotten out of control at that point,” an eyewitness said.
Kano State Police Command spokesperson, SP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, confirmed the incident and stated that an investigation is underway to determine the circumstances surrounding the death and the subsequent unrest.
