Violent Protests in Nigeria: Economic Crisis Leads to Tragic Loss

At least 13 protesters were killed during mass protests in Nigeria against economic hardships. Amnesty International verified the incidents. Curfews were imposed, and over 300 arrests were made in reaction to looting. Authorities confirmed four deaths by a bomb, and a police officer was killed.

At least 13 protesters were killed during mass protests in Nigeria against the country's economic crisis that turned violent in several states, a rights group said Friday. Authorities confirmed that four people were killed by a bomb and reported the arrests of hundreds in the protests, which triggered curfews in several states.

Amnesty International's Nigeria director Isa Sanusi said in an interview that the organization had independently verified the deaths reported by witnesses, victims' families, and lawyers.

More than 300 protesters were arrested, and curfews were imposed in the northern states of Kano and Katsina following the looting of government and public property, according to Nigerian police. One police officer was also killed, and several others were injured.

(With inputs from agencies.)