Residents of Kawo in Nasarawa Local Government Area of Kano State are currently living in fear as violent clashes involving suspected Yan Daba gangs have entered their third consecutive day, disrupting daily life and business activities.
The unrest, which has created panic among traders, commuters, and residents, is reportedly part of a growing resurgence of gang-related violence in parts of Kano State.
Eyewitnesses say the clashes have forced many shop owners to shut down operations over concerns for their safety and property. A resident, Muhammad, revealed that while the gangs have not yet invaded homes, they have allegedly been intimidating and looting traders.
“They scare traders away and collect money from them. People are afraid to continue their businesses,” he said.
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According to multiple accounts, the crisis began about three weeks ago following a dispute between commercial tricycle operators from different sections of the community.
A resident identified as Maman Mama explained that the violence started when a group of tricycle riders allegedly barricaded a major road early in the morning, preventing others from passing through.
“The riders blocked the road and displayed weapons. One rider was injured, and his tricycle was damaged. Since then, there have been retaliatory attacks,” she said.
Another resident, popularly known as Barrister, noted that the initial incident caused heavy traffic congestion and widespread panic among road users, even though commuters were not directly targeted.
A concerned mother in the area described the situation as deeply troubling, expressing fears about the safety and future of children in the community.
Meanwhile, a social commentator and activist, Comrade Sagiru Usman Yarima, has blamed the rising violence on increasing drug abuse among youths and the influence of political actors.
He warned that thuggery has significantly resurfaced in Kano, particularly as elections approach, citing several hotspots across the state.
“The situation is worsening. Some of these groups now use locally made weapons, which makes it even more dangerous,” he stated.
Yarima urged political, traditional, and religious leaders to take decisive action, while also calling on citizens to reject politicians who exploit young people for violent activities.
In response, the Kano State Police Command assured residents that security agencies are actively monitoring the situation and working to restore normalcy. Authorities noted that many of the clashes involve rival groups within the same communities.
The command also referenced the recent establishment of the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), a specialized team tasked with tackling serious crimes through intelligence-driven operations and professional policing standards.
Despite these assurances, tension remains high, with residents expressing concerns that the violence could escalate further if not swiftly contained.
As of the time of filing this report, no official casualty figures have been confirmed.
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