Zaharaddeen Ishaq Abubakar, Katsina Times

In a swift operation, the Department of State Services (DSS) has arrested Comrade Kabir Shehu Yandaki, the Secretary of the Coalition of Civil Society Organizations in Katsina State. This arrest occurred just 24 hours after he led a hunger protest in Katsina, highlighting the rising cost of living and other economic hardships.

Comrade Kabir Shehu Yandaki is a prominent youth activist who has been at the forefront of the ongoing protests against the economic difficulties faced by Nigerians. His leadership has drawn significant attention to the pressing issues of hunger and insecurity in the country.

The arrest of Yandaki has sparked widespread reactions, with many viewing it as an attempt to silence dissent and curb the growing movement advocating for better governance and economic reforms. The protest, which involved over 500 youth groups, called for the immediate reinstatement of fuel subsidies and urgent measures to address the pervasive security challenges in Northern Nigeria.

During the protest, Yandaki, along with other youth leaders, presented their grievances to the acting governor of Katsina State, Hon. Faruk Lawal Jobe. They highlighted the dire situation faced by residents, including rampant insecurity that has led to numerous deaths and displacements, and economic policies exacerbating the suffering of the masses.

In related news, security forces in Malumfashi Local Government Area have arrested Mujittapha Usman, who led a peaceful protest in the town, along with several youths, on Friday morning.

Meanwhile, in Dutsinma, police officers enforcing the curfew imposed by the Katsina State Government— a measure resisted by local residents—shot a young boy on Friday. Although there have been no reports of his death, residents of the Kudu neighborhood in Dutsinma have expressed their concerns about alleged human rights abuses by the security forces.

Comrade Habibu Ruma, another prominent activist, emphasized the need for the Tinubu administration to prioritize security and improve the efficiency of law enforcement agencies. He pointed out that continuous attacks by armed bandits are causing significant loss of lives and leaving many women widowed and children orphaned, particularly in Katsina State.

The Coalition of Civil Society Organizations organized the protest as part of a larger movement sweeping across various states in Nigeria, where citizens are voicing their discontent with the current economic conditions.

The Katsina State government has assured the public that the grievances expressed during the protest will be communicated to the federal government. They reiterated their commitment to addressing the concerns of the people and ensuring necessary steps are taken to improve their living conditions.

Yandaki's arrest is likely to intensify ongoing debates about the government's response to civil unrest and its commitment to addressing the economic and security challenges faced by the nation. As the situation unfolds, all eyes will be on the actions of both federal and state governments in addressing the root causes of the protests and ensuring justice for those detained.