The Nigerian military has issued a strong warning to those planning a nationwide protest over the worsening economic conditions in the country. This warning was delivered by Major General Edward Buba, the Director of Defence Media Operations, during a press briefing in Abuja on Thursday.
Major General Buba expressed serious concerns about the potential for violence, emphasizing that the military would not tolerate any actions that could lead to chaos. He drew comparisons to the recent violent protests in Kenya, suggesting that the organizers of the Nigerian protest might have similar disruptive intentions.
“While citizens have the right to peaceful protest, they do not have the right to mobilise for anarchy and unleash terror,” Major General Buba stated. He highlighted that the protests in Kenya have been marked by violence and have yet to be resolved, indicating a worrisome precedent.
Buba further elaborated on the military’s stance, saying, “The level of violence being envisaged can only be described as a stage for anarchy. The Armed Forces on its part will not stand by and allow anarchy to befall our nation.” His statements underscore the military’s readiness to intervene should the protests escalate beyond peaceful demonstrations.