In a recent press conference held in Abuja on August 2, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) issued a stern warning regarding the ongoing #EndbadGovernance protests sweeping across the nation. The CDS made it clear that the military is prepared to step in if the protests devolve into violence.

The CDS’s remarks come amid increasing tensions and clashes associated with the demonstrations, which are aimed at addressing various governance issues. The military chief emphasized the importance of maintaining peace during the protests, noting that any form of violence or destruction would be detrimental to the nation’s progress.

He specifically addressed the protesters, urging them to channel their energy into constructive actions rather than destructive behaviors. According to the CDS, violent actions only serve to undermine the objectives of the protests and can significantly set back the progress that the nation hopes to achieve through these demonstrations.

The military’s potential intervention highlights the serious nature of the situation and the government’s commitment to preventing further escalation. The CDS’s call for peace reflects a broader concern about the impact of civil unrest on national stability and development.

He said,

“We should realise that these destructions and monies have to be used—monies for development will have to be used to develop these things so we can move forward, and so instead of doing that, we should come together to make sure nothing is destroyed.

The statement has already been passed to the local, state, and federal governments.

We want to warn those that are recalcitrant, those that don’t want to listen, that we will not fold our hands and see our country destroyed.

We will take action, and the action that we’ll take will be professional. Anyone who is caught will be taken to the courts to be dealt with.

Let us avoid anything that will bring mayhem within our communities. We have seen the level of destruction that has been carried out just yesterday, and so you can imagine if this continues for so long. The armed forces and the entire military security agencies will not stand by and see that to continue.”

“I noticed throughout yesterday all the stations were hooked up on the occasion. This is not election, don’t give them that coverage because some of them are just looking for moments of being on the screen,”

As the situation develops, it remains crucial for all parties involved to prioritize non-violent methods and engage in constructive dialogue to address the issues at hand