Kebbi Council Imposes Curfew After Violent Clash Between Youths Over Gold Mining

The Yauri Local Government Area have declared a night-time curfew following violent clashes between youths over gold mining in Garin Katta community.

The curfew, which runs from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. daily, was announced after a misunderstanding among miners turned deadly, leading to loss of lives and destruction of property.

Although the exact number of casualties has not yet been confirmed, eyewitnesses said the trouble began last Saturday when a group of miners allegedly killed a man.

In retaliation, the victim’s relatives launched an attack the next day, and the situation escalated further when miners reportedly stormed parts of the community, destroying shops and setting motorcycles ablaze.

Confirming the development, Yauri council chairman, Abubakar Shuaibu, explained that he had alerted the Police Area Commander and the Department of State Services (DSS) in an effort to prevent escalation.

Shuaibu, who also announced the curfew, said the deceased had been buried according to Islamic rites after his body was recovered.

He noted that while some individuals were ready to name those behind the killing, others stopped them from doing so, which complicated the investigation.

“We demanded the names of those responsible for the killing, and some individuals were willing to cooperate. However, when we decided to accompany them to identify the culprits, their colleagues prevented them from doing so.

“With no other option, I contacted the Secretary to the State Government (SSG) but was unable to reach him, possibly because he was in a meeting. I then sought military support to restore order in Yauri,” he added.

The chairman added that the situation worsened after his deputy returned from the burial with reports that miners had begun attacking people within the town.

“Conflict is harmful, and God is displeased with anyone who initiates it. That is why we have deployed security forces to maintain peace and stability,” Shuaibu added.

KanyiDaily also reported how gunmen abducted and killed Alhaji Bako Bala, the All Progressives Congress (APC) Chairman in Suru Local Government Area of Kebbi State.