Palpable tension gripped the Barnawa axis of Kaduna South Local Government Area on Monday after security operatives allegedly shot and killed a young man.
The incident sparked angry protests, forcing the closure of popular bars, eateries, and other social spots in the bustling neighbourhood.
Eyewitnesses told Punch that the victim was reportedly struck by a stray bullet fired by a personnel of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), who was chasing a suspected drug dealer.
The shooting reportedly occurred near the busy Barnawa market junction, a hub for nightlife and commercial activities.
A resident identified as Musa narrated, “We were all here when the NDLEA men chased somebody. They were shouting at him to stop. Then one of them fired a shot, and it hit a completely different person who was just passing by. That boy had nothing to do with the matter. He was innocent.”
Residents described the deceased as a “quiet and hardworking young man” who lived in the community.
In the aftermath, enraged youths took to the streets, blocking the Aliyu Makama-Barnawa road with burning tyres and chanting slogans.
Another protester, Aisha, condemned the incident, “We are tired of security agents killing our brothers and sisters over nothing. They always say they are chasing criminals, but innocent people end up dying. We want the government to take action. This must not be swept under the carpet.”
The protest, which began around 6 p.m., brought vehicular movement to a halt, with many shop owners hurriedly locking up for fear of violence.
The usually lively Barnawa area turned eerily quiet as entertainment spots and bars closed.
A commercial tricycle operator, Bello, said he had to take alternative routes to drop passengers, “The road was blocked with tyres and stones. People were shouting, and security people were nowhere to be found at first. Everybody was afraid.”
Kaduna State Police Command spokesperson, DSP Mansir Hassan, confirmed the incident in a WhatsApp message, “Yes, we have received the information about the incident and the CP has ordered a full-scale investigation into the matter.”
By late evening, police patrol vans were deployed to restore calm, with some protesters dispersing, though many vowed to resume demonstrations if swift action was not taken.
The Kaduna State Government had yet to issue an official statement at the time of filing this report.
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