The Nigerian military announced on Friday its potential involvement in managing the looting crisis amid the nationwide hunger protests, dubbed #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria.
During a press conference in Abuja, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, addressed the issue, highlighting the military’s stance and the measures they are prepared to take.
General Musa acknowledged the protesters’ grievances regarding the severe economic challenges facing the country.
He appealed for patience and understanding towards the Federal Government, urging Nigerians to remain united during these difficult times. He emphasized the need to avoid vandalism and looting, which have escalated significantly since the protests began on Thursday, August 1, 2024.
Expressing deep concern over the high rate of destruction witnessed on the first day of the ten-day hunger protest, General Musa described the situation as “alarming.” He assured the public that the military, along with other security agencies, would not stand by idly while the country faces such turmoil.
He reiterated the military’s commitment to acting with professionalism and due process. General Musa warned that anyone caught engaging in looting or theft would be apprehended and prosecuted.
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“We will take decisive action, and it will be conducted with utmost professionalism. Those found guilty will be brought to justice and dealt with accordingly,” he stated.
“We are supporting the police all through. We are just on standby. The police are doing a good job; they are handling the situation for now. Unless it breaches beyond what they can handle, then the military will step in. The military is on standby and we are watching day and night.”
“So, we want to call on all Nigerians to understand the government. If you have grievances, which I know people have, a lot of challenges here and there, and it is not only in Nigeria alone; everywhere in the world is facing one economic or security crisis or the other. And so, it is important to understand that we are not alone.”
“But what we can do is not allow criminals and individuals that have lost out to take advantage of this to destroy our country. We should realise that these destructions, monies have to be used to replace them so that we can move forward.”
“We know we are challenged as a nation but we know we will overcome working together as Nigerians… Let us avoid anything that will bring mayhem to our country.”
The military’s intervention aims to restore order and prevent further destruction, ensuring that the nation’s security and stability are maintained during this period of unrest.