Tension gripped Rano Local Government Area of Kano State on Monday following the death of a young man, Abdullahi Musa, allegedly in police custody. The incident sparked widespread protests that escalated into violence, culminating in the burning of the Rano Divisional Police Headquarters.
According to eyewitness accounts, Musa was arrested over a traffic-related offence but died during interrogation. Several residents have accused the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge, identified as Baba Ali, of physically assaulting Musa, which they say led to his untimely death.
“A young man was beaten mercilessly by the DPO. Later, we heard he died in their custody. That’s what triggered the protest,” said a resident, who identified himself simply as Muhammad.
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Outraged by the development, angry youths took to the streets demanding justice for the deceased. The protest, initially peaceful, reportedly turned violent when police operatives allegedly opened fire to disperse the crowd, injuring at least two demonstrators — Hassan Salisu Hassan and Muhammad Ibrahim — who are currently receiving treatment at Rano General Hospital.
“In retaliation, the enraged youths began hurling stones at the police officers and eventually set the station on fire,” Muhammad added.
Reports also indicate that the DPO, Baba Ali, sustained serious injuries during the clash and is undergoing treatment.
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The Kano State Police Command has confirmed the incident. In a brief statement posted on his official Facebook page, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, wrote: “Incident in Rano — thorough investigation will be conducted by the Grace of God.”
The situation in Rano remains tense, with calls from civil society and community leaders for calm and accountability. Meanwhile, the state government and police authorities are yet to issue a detailed statement on the next course of action.