A curfew has been imposed in Kano State, Nigeria's second-largest state, after protests against the high cost of living turned violent, with widespread looting and destruction of property. The governor's office said the protests were "hijacked by thugs," forcing the government to take action to "restore order and ensure the safety of our communities."

The protests, which began on Thursday, were part of a nationwide demonstration against the high cost of living, with demonstrators chanting slogans such as "We are hungry." Police fired live bullets and tear gas to disperse the crowds, wounding four people.

The curfew effectively bars further protests, with all residents expected to remain at home. The protests were organized via social media and inspired by recent successes in Kenya, where protesters forced the government to scrap plans to increase taxes.

In other parts of the country, including the capital Abuja and economic hub Lagos, protesters clashed with security forces, who fired tear gas to disperse the crowds. Demonstrators are demanding the reversal of a fuel subsidy removal, wide-ranging reforms to the electoral system and judiciary, and an end to "bad governance."

The government has appealed for patience, but protesters say they will continue to demonstrate until their demands are met.