Family’s Plea for Accountability
In Kaduna, northern Nigeria, the family of Abubakar Adam Abdullahi, a 24-year-old tailor, demands justice following his death, which they attribute to police action during the ongoing nationwide hunger protests. Despite the local police denying involvement in his death, the family insists officers fatally shot him in the chest.
Contested Accounts and Official Denials
A spokesman for the Kaduna state governor stated that the administration is unaware of any protest-related deaths, a claim contested by Amnesty International, which reports three deaths in Kaduna alone. Amidst these conflicting reports, the family’s quest for justice continues, with Abubakar’s brother Ismail advocating strongly on behalf of the deceased.
Escalating Tensions and Government Response
Since the protests began, police have reported seven fatalities and the arrest of over 700 individuals, including a prominent protest leader. Despite President Bola Tinubu’s warnings, thousands of Nigerians, driven by worsening economic conditions and inspired by successful protests in Kenya, have taken to the streets.
Personal Story of a Protester
Abubakar, the youngest of 14 siblings, joined the protests driven by economic hardships affecting his tailoring business and personal life. High costs for materials, food, and rent pushed him to seek change through activism, illustrating the personal toll of the broader economic crisis.
Tragic Incident Caught on Video
Eyewitnesses near the governor’s office in Kaduna reported that police fired on protesters, and video evidence shows Abubakar attempting to flee before getting shot. The footage captured his friends pleading with the officers to stop, highlighting the chaotic and violent scene.
Family’s Unwavering Quest for Truth
Despite official reports denying protest-related deaths, Ismail and his family vow to continue their fight for clarity and justice. They remember Abubakar as a spirited, kind, and hardworking individual, qualities starkly contrasting with the violence of his last moments. The family has also seen videos of Abubakar behaving peacefully at the protest, reinforcing their resolve to challenge the official narrative.
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