Defence Headquarters Pledges to Prevent Violent Protests
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has revealed that intelligence reports indicate some “unscrupulous elements” are planning to hijack upcoming protests for violent purposes.
According to Maj-Gen Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, these elements aim to attack individuals based on their possession of items such as smartphones, cars, houses, shops, or even air conditioners.
During a briefing on Thursday, the DHQ outlined that targets also include places of worship, businesses, markets, people from different ethnic groups, and members of opposing political parties.
Regarding the planned nationwide protest, the DHQ stressed the need to consider several factors, including whether the protests are driven by opposition politics, independent parties, foreign interference, terrorist groups, or other organizations exploiting Nigerians’ frustrations. While the military respects citizens’ constitutional right to peaceful protest, it emphasized that this right does not extend to inciting anarchy or unleashing terror.
Drawing parallels to ongoing violent protests in Kenya, the DHQ noted that there are already indicators of plans to hijack the protests for violent ends. Signs of status-related violence suggest that people with basic possessions, such as smartphones and cars, will be targeted. This threat also extends to homeowners, shop owners, and those using air conditioners. Additional targets include places of worship, businesses, markets, people of different ethnic backgrounds, and political opponents.
The DHQ warned that the anticipated level of violence could lead to a state of anarchy, a situation the military is determined to prevent. Drawing from their experiences in war-torn countries and peacekeeping operations, the armed forces are prepared to act decisively to avoid such chaos in Nigeria.
The military has placed troops on high alert and is committed to resisting any group’s attempt to destabilize the country. Given the current atmosphere of hardship, the planned protest is seen as particularly volatile.
“It is our duty to extinguish the flames of violence rather than fan them,” the DHQ stated. “Cool heads must prevail so the government can continue addressing the situation and help our nation thri
ve once again.”
