Protesters storm Katsina govt house, ask Masari to step down

Some youth in Katsina state have protested the incessant attacks and killings of residents by bandits.

The youth, under the aegis of Collation of Northern Groups, lamented the frequent attacks by bandits.

The protest comes a week after a billboard bearing the picture of President Muhammadu Buhari and Aminu Masari, governor of the state, was burnt by protesters in Yantumaki town, Danmusa local government area of the state.

Shortly after that protest, more than 40 residents were killed by bandits.

On Tuesday, the youth commenced the fresh protest around the Muhammed Dikko Central Mosque and ended inside government house, Katsina.

While expressing their grievances, the protesters marched through Nagogo Road, Kofar Durbi, and GRA roundabout.

Some of the inscriptions on their placards were: “Buhari/Masari resign if you cannot protect us”; “End Banditry in Katsina”; “Enough is Enough”; “Katsina is a home of hospitality”, “We need peace”.

Chanting anti-government songs, the youth called for immediate action to end the killings in the state.

Some of them accused the government of giving too many excuses, calling for the immediate resignation of Masari.

During the weekend, Masari had said he had failed in his duty to protect residents.

“I don’t know what to tell them. I cannot look at them in the face because we have failed to protect them, contrary to our pledge to ensure the security of lives and property throughout the state,” he had said.

The incessant attacks made Masari’s administration to pull out of the peace deal with the bandits.