On the bustling streets of Abuja, Nigeria’s capital, there is palpable tension ahead of a possible wave of protests. Major General Edward Buba, the Director of Defence Media Operations, recently expressed concern about the planned protests, warning against any signs of anarchy. In a poignant press conference on Thursday, July 25, he stressed the military’s uncompromising determination not to allow chaos to set in.
General Buba referred to the recent unrest in Kenya, expressing concern that the planned protests could follow the path of violence that has recently taken hold there. “It is clear that the contemporary context of the planned protest seeks to replicate the anger that has been seen in Kenya, which I must stress has been violent and remains unresolved,” he said.
He also stressed the right of citizens to air their grievances, while warning against any attempt to escalate into violent rallies or protests. Rumours have surfaced that some groups may seek to hijack the protests into violent events. Such tactics could endanger innocent Nigerians and their businesses.
“While citizens have the right to peaceful protest, they do not have the right to mobilise to sow anarchy and unleash terror,” General Buba stressed.
He highlighted the devastating consequences of war and lawlessness, noting that “the level of violence envisaged can only be described as a scene of lawlessness. The armed forces, on their part, will not tolerate the advent of lawlessness in our nation, as we have seen wars and lawlessness in countries we have cooperated with, particularly during ECOMOG operations and our peacekeeping missions in various countries.”
Despite these warnings from the authorities, there have been calls by President Bola Tinubu, governors and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) for Nigerians to reconsider the ‘EndBadGovernance’ protest scheduled for next month. The protest, which has gained significant traction on social media, is scheduled to take place in all states of the Federation and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, in August. The organizers of the demonstration remain anonymous for now.
Through these events, an atmosphere of tension and concern reigns in Nigeria, leaving uncertainty about the future of the demonstrations and the stability of the country. Civil society, the authorities and the population find themselves at a crossroads, oscillating between the legitimate expression of their voices and fear of possible violent escalations.The African nation is about to experience crucial moments, where the responsibility of each individual to preserve peace and unity will be paramount to avoid the spectre of anarchy and conflict.