A protest in Zaranda Gari village, located in the Toro Local Government Area of Bauchi State, turned deadly on Tuesday, resulting in one death and multiple injuries.
The incident occurred around 9:00 am when residents gathered to protest the arrest of a local charcoal dealer. The situation escalated when members of the Nigerian Hunters Forestry and Security Service, a quasi-security outfit, fired sporadically during the blockade.
According to Bauchi State police spokesman Ahmed Wakili, three residents from Zaranda Gari—Abubakar Yahaya (35), Hussaini Yunusa (20), and Yayangida Hussaini (16)—were injured in the clash. They were taken to the Primary HealthCare Center in Zaranda Gari, where Yahaya later died from his injuries.
State Commissioner of Police Auwal Muhammad has ordered a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding Yahaya’s death and the actions of the security personnel involved.
“The Command is in control of the situation and will carry out a thorough investigation to identify and apprehend those responsible for this unprofessional conduct,” the police stated.
Police tactical teams have been deployed to the area to restore order and reopen the highway.