Maru, Zamfara State – A wave of anger and frustration over persistent terrorist attacks in Zamfara State led to violent protests on Thursday, culminating in the burning of the Emir of Maru’s palace.
The unrest erupted following the recent abduction of 10 people, including the Chief Imam of Maru Central Mosque, Alhaji Salisu Suleman, his two wives, and seven children. The attack, which occurred at around 2 a.m. on Wednesday, sent shockwaves through the community as gunmen stormed the town, firing sporadically to create fear and chaos.
In response to the escalating insecurity, enraged residents, primarily youths, took to the streets in protest. They demanded urgent government intervention to curb the rising wave of terrorist attacks that have plagued the region. The demonstrators blocked the Sokoto-Gusau highway, disrupting movement before security operatives intervened to disperse them.
Tensions escalated further when some protesters stormed the Emir’s palace and set part of it on fire, expressing their discontent with what they perceive as the authorities’ failure to protect them. A video obtained from the scene showed flames engulfing a section of the palace, with a voice in the background declaring, “This is a fire outbreak in the Emir’s palace.”
The incident underscores the growing desperation among Zamfara residents, who feel abandoned by the government amid increasing banditry and kidnappings. Critics argue that the state government has not taken sufficient action to address the security crisis, leaving communities vulnerable to repeated attacks.
Efforts to get a response from the Zamfara State Police Command were unsuccessful, as spokesperson Yazid Abubakar declined multiple calls and has not responded to text messages regarding the incident.
The situation in Zamfara remains tense, with residents calling for stronger security measures to protect them from further attacks. The government is under mounting pressure to act swiftly and restore peace to the troubled region.
