As Nigeria braces for a significant protest scheduled for August, the military has issued a stern warning against the potential for escalating violence and chaos.
The country is grappling with severe economic hardships, inflation, and widespread hunger, largely attributed to ineffective government policies.
Despite the mounting economic pressure, protest organizers remain resolute in their plans, even as the government seeks additional time to rectify its policies and address the nation’s suffering. In response to these developments, the Nigerian military has voiced concerns about the protest’s potential to spiral into disorder, drawing parallels with recent unrest in Kenya.
On Thursday, Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, addressed the press, highlighting fears that the protest could be hijacked by malevolent groups. He described the situation as a potential precursor to violence similar to that experienced in Kenya, where protests since June 18 have led to nearly 50 deaths and over 400 injuries, according to the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights.
General Buba emphasized that the military has identified signs that the protest could be exploited for violent purposes, targeting individuals based on their social status or possessions. He warned that places of worship, businesses, and individuals from various ethnic and political backgrounds might become targets if the situation deteriorates.
The military underscored its commitment to prevent the country from descending into anarchy, citing its experience with conflict situations from past peacekeeping operations. The statement also called for a careful examination of the protest’s motivations, including possible influences from political opposition, foreign entities, or terrorist organizations.
In light of these concerns, the military urged Nigerians to avoid fueling violence and instead support efforts to stabilize the nation. General Buba concluded by advocating for patience and collaboration to enable the government to address the nation’s challenges and foster prosperity.
