The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, announced on Friday that the Nigerian military is prepared to take decisive action if the ongoing nationwide protest against economic hardship, tagged #EndBadGovernance, escalates.
This statement was made during a press conference in Abuja amidst growing concerns over looting and vandalism.
Musa emphasised that the military is currently supporting the police in managing the protests.
“We are supporting the police all through. We are just on standby. The police are doing a good job; they are handling the situation for now,” he stated.
He added that the military would only intervene if the situation became unmanageable for the police.
The protests began on Thursday, and Nigerians were taken to the streets to express their frustration over hunger, economic stress, and poor governance.
However, the demonstrations have been marred by instances of violence, with sponsored hoodlums reportedly hijacking the protests to vandalise and loot properties.
Addressing the media, General Musa acknowledged the economic difficulties faced by Nigerians but called for unity and understanding.
“We know we are challenged as a nation, but we will overcome working together as Nigerians… Let us avoid anything that will bring mayhem to our country,” he urged.
He also warned against destroying property and looting, stressing that such actions would only exacerbate the country’s economic challenges.
Musa assured that the military would act professionally and ensure that those involved in looting and vandalism are prosecuted.
“We will take action, and we will take the action professionally. Anyone that is caught will be taken to court and dealt with,” he said.
“We are also going behind to ensure that we identify those who are involved; there are individuals who are sponsoring them, pushing them to do this, and we are going after them.”
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