Residents of Maru, in Zamfara State, have set fire to the palace of the Emir, while protesting against escalating terrorists’ attacks, and what they see as the Government’s failure to provide adequate security.
The unrest, it was gathered, began yesterday after security forces dispersed a peaceful protest staged by residents angered by the recent abduction of 10 community members. According to local sources, terrorists invaded the town around 2 a.m. on Wednesday, firing gunshots to instill fear among the population.
During the attack, the assailants kidnapped the Chief Imam of the Maru Central Mosque, Salisu Suleiman, along with his two wives and seven children. “They took away the Imam and his family members,” a community source confirmed.
Outraged by the recurring attacks, mostly young protesters took to the streets, blocking the Sokoto-Gusau highway to demand urgent government intervention. Security operatives intervened to disperse the demonstration, leading to heightened tensions.
In a dramatic escalation, the protesters marched to the Emir’s palace and set fire to part of the building, expressing their dissatisfaction with what they perceive as the traditional ruler’s and government’s inaction in addressing the security crisis.
A video circulating on social media shows flames engulfing a section of the palace, with a voice narrating: “This is a fire outbreak in the Emir’s palace”.
Repeated attempts to get a statement from the Zamfara Police Command spokesperson, Yazid Abubakar, were unsuccessful, as he did not respond to calls or text messages.
The incident underscores the growing frustration among residents in Zamfara State, who feel abandoned amidst rising terrorist activities and banditry. The State government has faced mounting criticism for its perceived inability to protect its citizens.
