The police command in Sokoto has detained 81 individuals posing as protesters.
The arrest was announced on Friday in a statement by ASP Ahmad Rufai, the command’s spokesman.
Mr Rufai praised the swift action of the police and dedication to public safety.
“The police, in collaboration with other security agencies in the state, successfully apprehended 81 miscreants. These individuals disguised themselves as peaceful protesters,” he said.
Mr Rufai said the protest, which began early Thursday morning under the close security watch, turned violent around 3:00 p.m.
“Billboards and iron railings on some major roads within the state were vandalised. However, to maintain law and order, the joint patrol team made the arrests.
“The commissioner of police in Sokoto state, Mr Ali Kaigama, acknowledged the rights of residents to protest but condemned the destruction of public infrastructure,” he said.
Mr Rufai assured us that any violent protester who caused destruction would be arrested and prosecuted.
(NAN)