Tension erupted in Gwarzo, the headquarters of Gwarzo Local Government, on Sunday following a violent protest over worsening insecurity, as angry youths allegedly set part of a government building ablaze.
The protest, which began as a peaceful demonstration, was triggered by repeated bandit attacks in the area, which residents say have left communities in fear and desperation.
Eyewitnesses said hundreds of youths took to the streets earlier in the day, chanting slogans and demanding immediate government intervention to address the growing security crisis.
The protesters were reported to have marched towards the Local Government Secretariat, where the situation allegedly escalated after some of the youths forced their way into parts of the premises.
Shortly after, a section of the building was set on fire, sending thick smoke into the air as residents and passers-by fled the scene in panic.
One resident who witnessed the incident said the anger had been building for weeks. “People are tired of sleeping in fear. The attacks have become too frequent, and there is no strong response. That is why the youths reacted this way,” he said.
Another community member appealed for calm, warning that the destruction of public property could worsen the situation.
“We understand the frustration, but violence will not solve the problem. What we need is dialogue and urgent security action,” he added.
Security operatives were later deployed across Gwarzo to restore order and prevent further escalation, as authorities reportedly moved to contain the unrest and investigate the incident.
