By ZAKAA LAZARUS, Abuja
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has issued a warning about potential hijacking by violent elements amid planned protests.
Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Edward Buba, disclosed this during a press briefing in Abuja on Thursday.
General Buba noted that the planned protest bears similarities to violent and unresolved events in Kenya, and there are strong indicators that unscrupulous elements plan to hijack the process, leading to anarchy. He emphasized that the military will not allow the nation to descend into chaos and will take action to prevent violent occurrences.
“The constitution is clear on the military’s role and involvement,” General Buba stated. “Citizens have the right to peaceful protest, but not to mobilize for anarchy and unleash terror.”
He cited potential targets, including individuals with basic possessions, places of worship, businesses, and markets. General Buba urged citizens to recognize the unique circumstances surrounding this protest and called for calm, allowing the government to address the situation and restore national prosperity.
Recall that some Nigerians are planning to organise a nationwide protest , commencing on August 1 due to economic hardship and bad governance.
Regarding ongoing military operations, General Buba stated that the military is focused on targeting terrorist groups and their cohorts, making significant progress in dismantling their capabilities. He added that operations are ongoing across the country, with troops battling crude oil theft perpetrators in various zones.
Following President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive to increase oil production in the Niger Delta region, the military has taken drastic actions against crude oil theft. A unified command structure has been established to ensure transparency and accountability in the oil sector, and to ensure that culprits are prosecuted.
The military is committed to maintaining peace and stability, and will not hesitate to take action against any elements that threaten national security.
