Hundreds of women, including mothers and married women, on Saturday stormed the streets of Kano in a peaceful but powerful protest against the escalating wave of gang violence that has gripped the state.
Chanting solidarity songs and wielding placards with bold inscriptions such as “Stop the Bloodshed!”, “Protect Our Children!” and “End Yandaba Attacks Now!”, the women lamented the frequent violent clashes perpetrated by notorious street gangs known as Yandaba, which they say have turned their neighbourhoods into killing fields.
The protest, which disrupted normal activities in some parts of the city, brought to the fore the growing frustration among residents, especially women, over the unrelenting attacks that have claimed innocent lives, mostly young men and children.
“Our husbands and sons are no longer safe,” one of the protesters told PLATFORM TIMES under the condition of anonymity.
“These Daba boys can attack at any time, and we now live in constant fear. Sometimes people being chased by gangs run into our homes seeking refuge.”
Another protester said the gang members operate openly and with impunity.
“These criminals do not care whether it’s day or night. Many families have lost breadwinners to their brutality. Enough is enough,” she fumed.
The protesters called on the Kano State Government and security agencies to urgently take decisive steps to restore peace and dismantle the gang networks terrorizing the communities.
In response to the growing concerns, the Kano State Police Command said it had made significant progress in tackling gang-related crimes and phone snatching.
According to the command, a joint task force was set up to confront the activities of the Yandaba gangs head-on.
A spokesperson for the police confirmed that “hundreds of suspects have been arrested and are currently in custody,” adding that efforts are ongoing to prosecute those found guilty and to prevent further breakdown of law and order.
However, many residents believe more needs to be done. Civil society organisations and community leaders are calling for more community policing, youth reorientation programmes, and a long-term policy response to curb the resurgence of street gangs in urban Kano.
'
'Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
