Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Christopher Musa announced on Friday that the military will step in if the ongoing nationwide #EndbadGovernance protests escalate into violence.
This statement came after Thursday’s protests saw significant vandalism and looting in various parts of the country.
In Kano, protesters looted and set ablaze parts of the newly constructed Nigeria Communications Commission (NCC) Industrial Park, which was set to be inaugurated next week. At a press conference, Musa urged protesters to understand that destruction is counterproductive and would only hinder national progress.
“We should realize that these acts of destruction will divert funds meant for development to repair damages, thereby setting us back,” Musa stated.
“We need to come together to ensure that no further damage occurs.”
Musa praised the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) for their efforts to maintain order but warned that the military would not hesitate to intervene if violence continues. “We want to caution those who are defiant and unwilling to listen that we will not stand by and watch our country be destroyed,” the CDS said. “Any perpetrators caught will be prosecuted.”
He added, “Let us avoid actions that bring chaos to our communities. The extent of destruction we witnessed yesterday is alarming, and if this persists, the military and all security agencies will not stand idle.”
Musa also called on the media to reduce coverage of the protests, suggesting that some participants are merely seeking attention. “I noticed extensive media coverage yesterday. This is not an election; do not give them that screen time because some are just looking for moments of fame,” he remarked.
Finally, Musa appealed to Nigerians to be patient with the government, assuring them that policies are being implemented to alleviate economic hardship.
