WATCH THE VIDEO HERE In a tragic turn of events, six protesters have reportedly been shot dead, and many others injured during a hardship protest in Suleja, Niger State. The incident occurred as security operatives attempted to disperse a group of protesters who had blocked a section of the Abuja-Kaduna highway, causing significant disruption and trapping motorists for several hours. The situation escalated when a reinforcement team arrived to restore order. In the chaos that ensued, a resident of Hassan Dalatu Road, Suleja, identified as Yahaya Nda Isah, was tragically hit by a stray bullet while riding his bike near the Suleja Police ‘A’ Division, where protesters had gathered. According to a nephew of the deceased, Yahaya was not participating in the protest but was caught in the crossfire, leading to his untimely death. The nephew, who spoke with Daily Trust, expressed his grief, saying, “He was my uncle. He was not even protesting. He was passing in front of the Police ‘A’ Division where some people were protesting when a stray bullet hit him on his chest, and he died. As I speak with you, I am in his house alongside other mourners. It’s unfortunate.” Another victim, identified as Mallam Abu, also died on the spot alongside three other individuals who were shot at the same location. Two additional victims were reported to have been shot at the Suleja Junction on the Abuja-Kaduna road. The spokesperson for the Niger State Police Command, SP Wasiu Abiodun, confirmed the incident and noted that some hoodlums attempted to set the Tafa Local Government Area (LGA) office ablaze. However, security operatives, including police and military personnel, were able to disperse the crowd and restore order. “The miscreants attempted to set the Tafa LGA ablaze, but they were dispersed by the police and military. The Kaduna road and toll gate were cleared,” said SP Abiodun. The events in Suleja highlight the growing tensions and frustrations among citizens in response to the economic hardships and governance issues in the region. The loss of lives and injuries sustained during the protest have left the community in mourning and raised questions about the use of force in handling demonstrations.