By Newsshelve Correspondent.
Nigeria has been rocked by nationwide economic protests, which turned violent in some major cities on Thursday, resulting in the deaths of at least five people, according to police.
However, Amnesty International claims that 13 protesters were killed by security personnel.
The protests, which were sparked by economic hardships and longstanding systemic issues such as corruption and press freedom, saw thousands take to the streets in cities across Nigeria.
The demonstrations were intended to last for 10 days, and reports indicate that protests continued in several cities on Friday.
Police Inspector-General Kayode Egbetokun stated that “hoodlums” had instigated a “mass uprising” under the guise of protest, resulting in looting and destruction of businesses and government buildings, including police stations.
He also reported unprovoked attacks on security personnel in Kaduna, Kano, and Gombe, resulting in the death of one police officer.
Amnesty International, however, claims that security personnel fired live ammunition at peaceful protesters, killing six people in Suleja, Niger state, four people in Maiduguri, Borno state, and three in Kaduna.
The protests were inspired by recent anti-government protests in Kenya, which forced the president to cancel proposed tax increases and dissolve his cabinet.
Organisers in Nigeria aimed to replicate this success, but the demonstrations were met with a heavy security presence and violence.
Many Nigerians blame the cost-of-living crisis on reforms introduced by President Bola Tinubu, who canceled a popular fuel subsidy and took steps that devalued the naira.
Despite a recent increase in the minimum wage, the protests went ahead, with demonstrators calling for an end to corruption and economic hardship.
The Nigerian government had warned against the protests, with Inspector-General Egbetokun stating that some groups were planning to “unleash terror” under the guise of replicating the Kenya protests.
Human Rights Watch also warned of a potential violent crackdown.
As the situation remains tense, with reports of continued protests and violence, many observers have urged the Nigerian government to ensure that the rights of protesters are respected and that any violence is investigated and addressed accordingly.
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