Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has issued a stern warning to those participating in ongoing protests against bad governance, stating that the military may intervene if violence persists.
His remarks come in response to escalating unrest and destruction across the country.
General Musa called for unity and support from all levels of government, urging citizens to avoid actions that could lead to further chaos.
He said, “We want the support of all Nigerians, from the FG to the State and Local Governments, let us avoid anything that will bring us mayhem within our communities.
“Yesterday, we saw the level of destruction that has been carried out and so you can imagine if this continues for so long, the Armed Forces and the entire military security agencies will not stand by and see that to continue.”
He emphasised that the military would not remain passive if the violence continued, assuring that any intervention would be carried out professionally.
“So we want to warn those that are recalcitrant that we will not fold our hands and see our country destroyed. We will take action and the action we will take, we will take it professionally. Anyone that is caught will be taken to the Court to be dealt with,” Musa said.
The Defence Chief also appealed to the media to exercise restraint in their coverage of the protests, suggesting that excessive media attention might be encouraging some demonstrators who seek publicity.
“And again for the media, I want to also appeal because I noticed throughout yesterday all the stations were hooked up to the occasion.
“This is not an election thing, don’t give them that coverage for them to feel… Because there are some of them who are looking for just moments to be on the screen,” he said.
Meanwhile, Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has praised the residents of the South Eastern region for heeding calls to avoid the protests, citing concerns about potential hijacking by violent groups.
Uzodimma expressed disappointment that some individuals contributing to Nigeria’s economic challenges are now allegedly funding the protests instead of working with the federal government to find solutions.
He lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his efforts to address inherited economic issues and urged citizens to support the president’s initiatives and embrace dialogue as a means to address grievances.
In a related development, Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun labelled the protests as a “mass uprising” rather than a peaceful demonstration.
Speaking from the Force Headquarters in Abuja, Egbetokun condemned the violence and looting that marred the first day of the protests.
He highlighted that despite warnings and efforts to confine demonstrations to controlled areas, many protestors engaged in violent activities.
The IGP reported significant damage and looting in several states, including Kano, Borno, Yobe, Kaduna, and Abuja.
The violence included attacks on police stations, government buildings, and retail stores. Egbetokun also noted a tragic incident in Borno State where an explosion during the protests resulted in four deaths and 34 injuries.
Egbetokun urged citizens to heed security warnings and cooperate with authorities, emphasizing that the police, supported by other security agencies, are prepared to manage the situation and ensure public safety.
He reassured the public of the force’s commitment to maintaining order and protecting lives and property.
