At least 19 people have been killed and many more injured as protests against economic hardship in Nigeria turned violent across the country. The protests, which began on Thursday, were initially peaceful but were hijacked by hoodlums in several states, leading to clashes with security forces.

In Niger State, six protesters were killed and several others injured when police fired live ammunition to disperse the crowd. In Borno State, four people were killed and 34 injured when suspected Boko Haram members infiltrated the protest and detonated explosive devices.

In Kaduna State, three protesters and one security operative were killed, while in Jigawa State, two protesters were shot dead by police. Three protesters were also killed in Kano State, leading to a 24-hour curfew being imposed by the state government.

The protests, which were held in all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, were organized by youths to express their grievances against government policies that have led to widespread hardship. However, the violence has prompted the Inspector General of Police to place all units on red alert to prevent further breakdown of law and order.

The police have been accused of using excessive force to disperse the protesters, leading to the deaths and injuries. The government has yet to comment on the violence, but the Inspector General of Police has vowed to protect lives and property and maintain law and order across the nation.