The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, says the military would step in to assist the police and other security agencies if the violent protest in some parts of the country goes out of control.
The CDS gave the warning in Abuja on Friday, August 2, 2024, while briefing newsmen on the activities of the protesters turning violence in some parts of the country on Thursday.
Musa said the military had been on standby providing support to the police and other security agencies since the beginning of the protest on Thursday, adding that they would not stand by and watch things get out of hand.
The CDS said the military was determined to ensure across the country with the support of all Nigerians, urging the citizens to understand the government.
He said while the military recognised that there were challenges, it would not allow criminals or individuals who had hatred for the government to take advantage of the situation to destroy the country.
Musa said: “Monies that are meant for development will have to be used to repair the destruction thing so that we can move forward.
“So instead of doing that, we should come together and make sure nothing is destroyed.”
The CDS further stated that the recent autonomy granted the local government to be able to get funds directly from the federation account would ensure that people at the grassroots get the feel of the government.
The CDS urged Nigerians to look up to their local and state governments.
He added: “I want to appeal once again for the support of all Nigerians, the federal government, the state government, and local governments and let us avoid anything that will bring mayhem within our communities.
“We have seen the level of destruction that was carried just yesterday and you can imagine if this continues for long.
“The armed forces and the entire security agencies will not stand by and see that to continue.
“We want to warn those that are in the house, those that don’t want to listen. We will not fold our hands and see our country destroyed.
“We will take action and the action will be taken professionally. Anyone caught will be taken to the courts to be dealt with.”
