In what appears as a repeat of the fallout of the #EndSARS protest of 2020, hungry youths in Adamawa have resorted to looting government-owned grain reserves and other shops.
The youths reportedly started the looting spree at the grain warehouse located at PZ Roundabout, a stone’s throw away from the Yola International Airport.
It was learnt that virtually all the grain reserves on Numan Road and other strategic locations were looted. Some of them have also started looting private stores.
In response, armed policemen were seen engaging the youths as they attempted to crack down on the rampage.
There are also reported cases of live bullets being fired as the looting turned violent.
One of the looters who spoke to our correspondent blamed the action on the hardship being experienced in the country, following the removal of subsidy on premium motor spirit otherwise known as petrol.
To manage the situation, Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri has declared a 24-hour curfew.
A statement from the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Himwashi Wonosikou said, “The Governor of Adamawa State, the Rt Hon Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri has declared a 24-hour curfew on the state, effective from Sunday, 30th July, 2023.
“Governor Fintiri said the curfew followed the dangerous dimension the activities of hoodlums had assumed across the state capital as they attack people with machetes and break into business premises and homes, carting away property.
“With the curfew imposed, there will be no movement throughout the state.
“Rt. Hon. Fintiri said only those on essential duties with valid identification would be permitted to move around during the period of the curfew.
“The Governor is appealing to citizens and residents of the state to comply with the directive, adding that any person found contravening the order would be arrested and made to face the wrath of the law.”