By Joke Kujenya
Nigerians have been urged to keep the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protest peaceful.
Chief of Defence Staff Christopher Musa issued the warning, stating that the military will intervene if the situation continues to spiral into chaos and looting.
During a press briefing, Musa commended the professionalism of the Nigerian security forces, especially the police.
He emphasized the difference between peaceful protests and criminal activities.
The nationwide protest began on Thursday.
Reports indicate that over five people have died, and several others have been injured after two days.
Authorities have also arrested over 1,000 individuals for looting and vandalism.
Musa noted that the protests started peacefully but were soon disrupted by criminal elements.
“What we saw yesterday began as a peaceful demonstration, but it quickly turned violent due to some individuals with malicious intent,” he said.
He called on Nigerians to support the federal government, which has been in power for only one year.
Musa acknowledged the government’s efforts to address economic and security challenges.
Musa highlighted the importance of national unity and collaboration.
He urged all Nigerians to work together to restore peace and promote economic growth.
He mentioned recent government initiatives, including visits to the Niger Delta to boost oil production.
“The armed forces and the entire security agencies will not stand by and see our country destroyed. We will take action, and it will be professional,” Musa warned.
Addressing concerns about potential future protests, Musa assured citizens that the military is ready to support the police if necessary.
He urged Nigerians to avoid giving attention to those exploiting the situation for personal gain and reiterated the need for peaceful demonstrations.
Regarding specific incidents, Musa acknowledged ongoing investigations into allegations of excessive force by security personnel.
He assured the public that any misconduct would be addressed.
Musa appealed to Nigerians to remain calm, cooperate with security agencies, and report any suspicious activities.
He stressed the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens.
The protests have entered their third day, with participants in many states taking to the streets despite security crackdowns.
While many protests have remained peaceful, some states have experienced violence, particularly in the North, leading to looting and the declaration of curfews by some state governors.
In the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), police continue to disperse peaceful protesters with tear gas.
Despite this, the demonstrators have shown resilience.
The first two days of the protest have been mixed.
The government has faced criticism for its use of force against protesters, while looting and rioting in the North have helped discredit the protests.
Call for End to Protests
A lawyer for the ‘Take It Back movement,’ Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa, one of the groups organizing the demonstration, called for an end to the protests on Friday.
However, his call was rejected by Omoyele Sowore, a leading voice in the movement.
It remains unclear if the demonstrators will heed Adegboruwa’s call, though fatigue is evident in some states.
In Abuja, the number of protesters decreased significantly on Friday.
The looting and violence in the North have also discouraged many.
Several clerics used the Friday Jummat sermon to dissuade people from continuing the protests.
The impact of these sermons on the protesters is yet to be seen.
President Bola Tinubu has remained silent and has not addressed the nation.
Several protesters have expressed a willingness to leave the streets if the president speaks to them, but he has remained silent.
Police Faults Amnesty Int’l Claims
The Nigeria Police Force refuted Amnesty International’s claim that 13 protesters were killed by security agencies.
They confirmed only seven deaths, most from a suicide bombing and a car accident.
Police clarified that in Borno State, a terrorist attack killed four people and injured 34.
Two civilians died in a car accident involving an unregistered Honda Prelude.
In Kebbi State, a local vigilante shot and killed a looter.
The police arrested 681 individuals for various criminal offenses, including armed robbery and arson.
They recovered dangerous weapons and stolen items from the suspects.
The police urged peaceful protesters to withdraw, citing the violence that has characterized the protests.
They assured the public of their commitment to maintaining law and order and advised citizens to disregard unfounded reports circulating about the protests.
NLC Demands Protesters’ Protection
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has filed a lawsuit demanding protection for the protesters.
They argue that the rights and safety of those participating in the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protests should be safeguarded amidst the ongoing unrest.
The union warned that if protesters are further molested, it could be forced to join the protests.
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