Wuse Market, Abuja Set Ablaze As Protest Rages Over Killing

In the bustling Wuse Market of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), chaos erupted as parts of the market went up in flames, allegedly ignited by a mix of hoodlums and enraged traders following the tragic killing of a hawker on Tuesday afternoon.

According to an eyewitness, who preferred to remain anonymous, the hawker had been apprehended within the market premises and brought before a mobile court for trial. However, in a desperate attempt to evade punishment, the hawker tried to flee but was fatally shot by a security officer.

The sudden death of the young man sparked fury among the Hausa traders and hoodlums, triggering a rampage that saw shops set ablaze and property destroyed in a frenzy of violence.

The incident plunged the market into pandemonium, with terrified individuals scrambling in every direction for safety. Traffic congestion clogged all routes leading to the market as the chaos spilled onto the streets.

Police officers swiftly arrived at the scene, cordoning off the entrance to prevent further escalation of the violence. Their efforts to restore order were met with resistance, as they resorted to firing sporadic shots and tear gas to disperse the angry mob.

The northern section of the market, particularly the car park, bore the brunt of the rampage, with several vehicles engulfed in flames amidst the chaos.

A senior official from the Abuja Markets Management Limited (AMML), speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed the incident. The extent of injuries sustained during the stampede remains unclear, as panicked individuals sought refuge by scaling fences and forcing their way through the limited exits.

Innocent Amaechina, the PRO of AMML, confirmed the fire incident, reporting damage to their office, other shops, and several vehicles. While unable to ascertain the perpetrators of the fire, Amaechina noted that the Fire Service and Police had taken control of the area, limiting access to the affected zone for safety reasons.

Source: Leadership.

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