A potential intervention by the Nigerian military looms as violence escalates in various states during the nationwide protest under the banner of #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria.
General Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff, emphasized during a press briefing in Abuja that the military stands prepared to intervene to curb the intensifying incidents of looting and violence across the nation.
The #EndBadGovernance movement commenced on Thursday, resulting in at least 17 casualties as clashes erupted in states such as Abuja, Kano, Niger, Borno, Kaduna, and Jigawa. Businesses and financial institutions remained closed, with major thoroughfares eerily deserted.
As the protests persisted into Friday, confrontations between law enforcement and demonstrators erupted in various regions.
Acknowledging the grievances of the protesters regarding the challenging economic conditions in the country, the CDS urged for patience and unity amidst the turbulent times.
He implored Nigerians to stand together during these turbulent times, cautioning against the looting and destruction of property. The Chief of Defence Staff condemned the rampant destruction of assets during the nationwide protests, labeling the acts as “absurd.”
Emphasizing that the military and other security agencies will not passively witness the country’s destruction, he reiterated their commitment to maintaining peace and order.
The Chief of Defence Staff issued a strong warning, stating, “We will take action, and the actions we take will be executed professionally. Individuals caught engaging in criminal activities will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.”
He further emphasized the identification and pursuit of both the direct perpetrators and the sponsors behind the destructive activities.
Abuja Protesters Dispersion and Police Actions
In Abuja, clashes ensued as police dispersed demonstrators, resulting in injuries to several individuals, including journalists.
Reports indicated that the protest, which commenced at the Moshood Abiola Stadium, deviated from the FCT High Court’s directives and disregarded police warnings against procession activities.
Amid escalating tensions, the protesters attempted a procession near the National Hospital area and were met with tear gas and live ammunition dispersal tactics.
Several protestors sustained injuries and sought refuge in nearby areas upon the commencement of shooting.
Subsequent to the police’s aggressive measures, the remaining demonstrators regrouped at the Berger Roundabout but were once again subjected to tear gas.
Undeterred by the intimidation, the resolute protesters reconvened to press on with their demands until addressed by the Federal Government.
Voicing their resolve, demonstrators highlighted their unwavering commitment to advocating for improved living conditions for all citizens, despite facing forceful opposition.
The Federal Capital Territory Police Command issued a directive for medical facilities and staff to report any individuals presenting gunshot wounds to the nearest police station.
The command’s spokesperson emphasized police engagements with hoodlums and urged against criminal activities under the guise of protests.
Police Actions in Akwa Ibom
In Akwa Ibom State, the state police reportedly resorted to tear gas against protesters assembled at Ibom Plaza for a second day of the hunger protest.
A journalist covering the event was also subjected to tear gas while interviewing protesters, as the police intervened and relocated the group.
Prior to police intervention, a protester at the plaza expressed grievances over the increasingly dire living conditions in Nigeria, emphasizing the need for economic improvements.
The protester articulated concerns about the high cost of fuel and basic necessities, advocating for governmental actions to alleviate the financial burdens on the populace.
Harsh Treatment of Bauchi PWD by Security Personnel
In Bauchi State, security personnel at the Government House gate engaged in physical altercations with a Person With Disability (PWD) in a wheelchair…
The Initiative for the Liberalisation of Physically Challenged People is led by Hamza Waziri. In a viral video circulating on social media, security agents were filmed hitting a person in a wheelchair. Waziri recounted being at the government house with other physically challenged individuals for a peaceful demonstration when the guards attacked them. He mentioned being live on video when a police officer accused him of filming and attempted to grab his phone, resulting in physical violence.
There were less than ten demonstrators present, with Waziri being the only one prominently displaying placards advocating for inclusive employment opportunities. Mukhtar Gidado, the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, confirmed that an investigation was underway regarding the incident.
**Hoodlums set the Yobe Red Cross office on fire and vandalize vehicles:** In Yobe, a group of criminals attacked the Red Cross office in Gujba, Maiduguri-Potiskum Road, Damaturu, causing property damage and setting a vehicle ablaze. Images and videos revealed the extent of the destruction, including burnt vehicles and vandalized property. The Coordinator of Communications and Advocacy for the Nigerian Red Cross Society, Chima Nwankwo, confirmed the incident, stating that property and vehicles were destroyed, but thankfully, there were no casualties.
**Divergent views on protest management:** Different perspectives emerged regarding the handling of protests. Lawyer Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa advised suspending the protests due to reported hijacking by hoodlums, emphasizing the need to prevent further casualties. He criticized the President for not engaging with the protest organizers earlier, cautioning against taking citizens for granted. Contradicting this, activist Omoyele Sowore clarified that Adegboruwa’s stance was personal and not representative of the organizers. The Director of Mobilisation for the Take It Back Movement, Damilare Adenola, insisted that the protests would only cease once their demands were met.
**Implementation of curfews in northern states:** Five northern states, including Kano, Borno, Katsina, Yobe, and Jigawa, imposed curfews following civil unrest. In Jigawa State, a 24-hour curfew was imposed due to violent incidents during what started as peaceful protests. Governor Umar Namadi temporarily lifted the curfew for the Juma’at prayers but emphasized the necessity of preventing further chaos.
**Civil Society reports arrests and fatalities:** The Organised Civil Society of Nigeria reported that 21 individuals lost their lives, while 1,154 protesters were arrested by the police during the #EndBadGovernance protests. They also noted 175 injuries across 18 states, highlighting cases of police brutality and violence. Despite assurances from the Inspector General of Police, the group criticized the excessive use of force against protesters.
**Legal intervention in protester arrests:** A coalition of lawyers successfully secured the release of 15 protesters detained by the police in different parts of Lagos. The legal team member, Festus Ogun, confirmed the arrests and releases, highlighting efforts to ensure justice for the detained individuals.
**Criticism of President Tinubu’s response:** Opposition parties criticized President Bola Tinubu for his silence on the arrests and alleged killings of protesters. They accused him of neglecting his role in addressing societal grievances, particularly in engaging with protesters’ demands before the situation escalated.
[Additional reports contributed by Adebayo Folorunsho-Francis, Nathaniel Shaibu, Animasahun Salman, Faith Awa, Imoleayo Oyedeyi, Olufemi Adeniran, Patrick Odey, Umar Sani, Nathaniel Shaibu, and Okiki Adeduyite]