Residents  of Katsina state Protest After 20 Villagers Killed by Suspected Bandits in Katsina

A recent peaceful protest in Katsina State has culminated in the arrest and ongoing detention of a resident, Anas Muhammad Game. The protest, which was part of a nationwide outcry against escalating insecurity and banditry, saw residents demanding urgent intervention from authorities to curb the violence ravaging their communities.

The Protest and Its Participants

The demonstration took place in Bakori Local Government Area and involved concerned locals, mostly residents affected by frequent bandit attacks that have resulted in deaths, injuries, and kidnappings. Despite the peaceful nature of the protest, police reportedly responded with a crackdown, arresting participants and perceived organisers. Among those targeted was Anas Muhammad Game, a popular social media personality in the area.

Arrest and Detention

According to reports, police officers stormed Game’s residence six days ago but found him absent. His younger brother was arrested in his stead but was later released. Meanwhile, Anas Muhammad Game has remained in police custody without bail, raising concerns about the suppression of peaceful dissent and the intimidation of community activists.

Public Response and Concerns

The continued detention has sparked widespread condemnation, especially on social media, where citizens are calling for his immediate release. Hamza Nuhu Dantani, a concerned citizen, publicly urged the Katsina Police Command to release or grant bail to Game, emphasising that protest is a fundamental right and should not be criminalised.

Context of Peaceful Demonstrations

This incident follows a series of peaceful protests by Katsina residents demanding urgent action against persistent attacks by bandits. Despite the non-violent nature of these demonstrations, authorities have reportedly responded with intimidation tactics, including house-to-house arrests of protesters. Community members are now worried about the rising trend of repression against those exercising their right to peaceful assembly.

Call for Action

Residents and human rights advocates are calling on national and international organisations, as well as Nigerians in general, to intervene and ensure the protection of protesters and their rights. The community urges authorities to prioritise security and uphold citizens’ rights to peaceful protest, especially in the face of ongoing threats to their lives and livelihoods.

The detention of Anas Muhammad Game symbolises the broader challenge of balancing security concerns with citizens’ rights to peaceful protest in Nigeria. As communities continue to voice their grievances, the hope remains that authorities will adopt more constructive and rights-respecting responses to the rising insecurity across Katsina and beyond.