By Joke Kujenya
NIGERIANS ARE urged to maintain peace during the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protests.
Chief of Defence Staff Christopher Musa has warned that the military will step in if the situation deteriorates into chaos and looting.
At a press briefing, Musa praised the professionalism of Nigerian security forces, particularly the police.
He stressed that there is a clear distinction between peaceful protests and criminal activities.
The nationwide protests began on Thursday.
In the first two days, reports indicate that more than five people have died, and several others have been injured.
Authorities have arrested over 1,000 individuals for looting and vandalism.
Musa noted that while the protests started peacefully, they were soon disrupted by criminal elements.
“What began as a peaceful demonstration 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 just one year.
Musa acknowledged the government’s efforts to tackle economic and security issues and highlighted the importance of national unity and collaboration.
He emphasized the need for all Nigerians to work together to restore peace and foster economic growth.
Musa mentioned recent government efforts, such as visits to the Niger Delta to boost oil production.
“The armed forces and all security agencies will not stand by while our country is destroyed. We will act professionally,” Musa warned.
Addressing concerns about potential future protests, Musa assured that the military is prepared to support the police if necessary.
He urged Nigerians to disregard those exploiting the situation for personal gain and reiterated the need for peaceful demonstrations.
Musa also addressed allegations of excessive force by security personnel, assuring the public that any misconduct will be investigated and addressed.
He appealed to Nigerians to stay calm, cooperate with security agencies, and report any suspicious activities.
Musa 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 continuing to take to the streets despite security crackdowns.
While many protests have remained peaceful, some states, particularly in the North, have seen violence, looting, and the imposition of curfews by governors.
In the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), police have used tear gas to disperse peaceful protesters, yet the demonstrators remain resilient.
The first two days of the protests have been mixed.
The government has faced criticism for its response to protesters, while violence and looting in the North have marred the protest’s image.
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.
