The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has warned that the military will be forced to intervene, if the nationwide protests continue to devolve into violence and looting. General Musa echoed an earlier warning issued by the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, who said operatives of the police force have been put on high alert.
The CDS gave his warning on Friday while speaking with reporters in reaction to the vandalization and looting of properties that characterized the protest in many parts since the commencement of the protest.
He said, “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.”
“We know we are challenged as a nation, but we will overcome by working together as Nigerians. Let us avoid actions that could bring chaos.
“Yesterday’s events were alarming, with people breaking into homes and stealing. We won’t allow this to continue. The Armed Forces and security agencies are ready to intervene professionally, and offenders will be prosecuted.”
He added, “Many believe looting is their only opportunity, but we have arrested those responsible and they will face legal consequences.”
Musa appealed to Nigerians to be united during these trying times and also cautioned against the vandalization of property and looting.
“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 realize that these destructions, monies have to be used to replace them so that we can move forward.”
