Protest: Civil society groups condemn violence in Borno

The Network of Civil Society Organisations-Borno State (NECSOB) has condemned the escalating violence surrounding the ongoing protests in the state, describing the reported deaths as “alarming and unacceptable”.

In a statement in Maiduguri on Friday, NECSOB’s leader, Bulama Abiso, said, “We acknowledge the citizens’ right to peaceful protest, but there is a need to respect the rights of others.”

The group urged citizens to remain law-abiding, desist from causing mayhem, and report hoodlums taking advantage of the protests to the authorities.

It also cautioned citizens to comply with the statewide curfew imposed to restore law and order, and called on security operatives to exercise restraint and professionalism in handling the protests.

As tensions rise in Borno State, NECSOB’s appeal for calm and restraint is seen as a crucial step towards resolving the crisis peacefully.

The protests, which began over hardship and hunger, have turned violent, resulting in loss of life and property.

The ongoing protest in Borno has taken a deadly turn, resulting in the loss of over 26 lives. A bombing blast in Kawuri alone claimed 16 lives, while more than 10 others were killed in related violence. Many more have been hospitalised due to injuries sustained during the protest, according to a police statement.

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