Fear in Kano as suspected Yan Daba clashes enter third day
Renewed Violence in Kano’s Kawo District Raises Alarms Among Residents
KANO, Nigeria — Residents of Kawo in the Nasarawa Local Government Area are expressing growing unease as violence attributed to suspected gangs, known locally as Yan Daba, continues for a third consecutive day.
The ongoing unrest has disrupted daily routines and instilled fear among traders and commuters, contributing to what some locals describe as a resurgence of gang-related violence in the region.
Muhammad, a Kawo resident, noted that the clashes have had a detrimental impact on local businesses, heightening concerns about the safety of goods. “They have not started entering houses yet, but they scare away traders and loot them, from what I have heard,” he said.
According to local accounts, the recent turmoil began approximately three weeks ago, following a dispute involving commercial tricycle operators from different sections of Kawo.
Maman Mama, a mother from the area, indicated that the conflict originated when a group of tricycle riders allegedly blocked Kawo Road in the early morning. “It began three weeks ago. NAPEP riders from Kawon Lambu, who are heavy smokers of Indian hemp, barricaded Kawo Road around 6:50 a.m., preventing riders from Kawon Majalissa from passing through,” she recounted.
She alleged that the group brandished weapons and threatened those attempting to use the road, resulting in injuries to a tricycle rider and damage to his vehicle. Police intervention was delayed, arriving after 9 a.m., leading to retaliatory actions by riders from Kawon Majalissa.
Another local, who goes by the name Barrister, remarked on the significant traffic congestion caused by the incident, describing an atmosphere of panic among road users. “They only caused a hold-up. The road was filled with motorists and passers-by, creating fear among people,” he stated.
A woman who preferred to remain anonymous shared her concerns, stating, “You have not seen anything in this area. May God help us raise our children well.”
Calls for Action Amid Drug Abuse Concerns
Comrade Sagiru Usman Yarima, a social commentator and activist, attributed much of the violence to rising drug abuse among youth in Kano. As chairperson of the Centre for Thuggery and Violence Awareness, he condemned the escalating trend of violence linked to political interests and criminal gangs, urging communities to speak out against threats to life and property.
“Ninety percent of thuggery has returned to Kano, especially because of the upcoming elections,” Yarima said. “This trend has been growing since 2015.” He cited several neighborhoods, including Ƙulƙul, Dala, and Hotoro, as hotspots for gang activity.
Yarima also underscored the need for stronger action from political and traditional leaders to address insecurity and youth involvement in violence. He called on voters to reject politicians who exploit youth for violent purposes.
Police Efforts in Response to Unrest
In a statement earlier this week, the Kano State Police Command acknowledged that many recent clashes have involved rival groups within the same communities. The command reassured residents that security agencies are actively monitoring the situation to prevent further violence and restore order in affected areas.
The Kano State Police recently established a Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) designed to address such disturbances. According to Police Commissioner Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, officers in this unit have undergone extensive training in tactical response and human rights, emphasizing discipline and respect for citizens.
Despite these measures, the people of Kano remain on edge. As of press time, the number of casualties from the ongoing clashes had not been confirmed.
