The usually uncontrollable civil unrest seems to have found an unusual echo in the thousand-year-old city of Kano, where an atmosphere of relative tranquility currently reigns. Despite calls for the state’s youth to mobilize to demonstrate their discontent, a large proportion of them seem to have decided to abandon the protest.
This reluctance to participate in the demonstrations can be interpreted as a reaction to fears of unforeseen repercussions and negative experiences during previous mobilizations, particularly those of August 1.
In the streets of Kano, although a few shops have chosen to remain closed, a few rare individuals and vehicles can still be seen driving on the main roads. This situation contrasts with the usual effervescence that characterizes these protest events.
The massive deployment of security forces at strategic points in the city aims to prevent any overflow and to maintain public order. The dissuasive presence of these forces undoubtedly contributes to the relative tranquility that currently reigns in the city.
At present, many businesses are still closed, freezing the region’s economic activity. This phenomenon reflects a certain caution on the part of traders, anxious to protect their goods and avoid any risk of looting or damage.
This apparently calm and silent situation contrasts with the tumult and excitement that usually characterize this type of popular gathering. Faced with this relative restraint of young people and this climate of wait-and-see that prevails, the future of the protest in Kano remains uncertain. The coming days will reveal whether this lull is temporary or whether it marks a turning point in the city’s protest dynamics.
In short, the reassuring presence of the police and the caution of traders seem to play a decisive role in maintaining this atmosphere of apparent calm, offering a striking contrast with the tumult and agitation that marked previous mobilizations.
Time will tell whether this calm is a sign of temporary resignation among the youth of Kano or whether it is simply a pause before new waves of protest.