President Tinubu Orders Security Chiefs to Crack Down on Coup Sponsors and Foreign Flag Flyers
In a decisive move, President Bola Tinubu has instructed the nation’s security chiefs to pursue individuals and sponsors responsible for the appearance of Russian flags and coup advocacy within Nigeria. This directive was disclosed by the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, following a briefing on the ongoing #EndBadGovernance protests at the State House, Abuja.
Protesters Carrying Foreign Nation’s Flag
Speaking to State House Correspondents, Gen. Musa made it clear that the military would not tolerate the flying of foreign flags during these protests, labeling such actions as treasonable offenses. “Initially, when the protest started, it was said to be peaceful, but it has since escalated, with criminals exploiting the situation to loot and cause chaos,” Musa stated.
He further expressed concern over the appearance of foreign flags, particularly Russian ones, deeming it unacceptable within Nigeria’s sovereignty. “We are warning in clear terms, and the President has emphasized, that we will not accept anyone flying foreign flags in Nigeria. It is a treasonable offense and will be treated as such,” he warned.
The military has identified and is tracking down those who are behind these actions, noting that many of the flag bearers are children being manipulated. “We are following up with those who are sponsoring them. Some people are pushing them because the flags were also made. We have identified those behind it and we are going to take serious action against them,” Musa explained.
President Tinubu has been unequivocal in his stance against any attempts to disrupt Nigeria’s peace and democracy. He has ordered the security agencies to be on high alert and prepared to defend the nation’s democratic principles. “Democracy is what we stand for, and we will continue to defend it,” Gen. Musa affirmed.
The Chief of Defence Staff also addressed allegations that soldiers had participated in looting during the protests, clarifying that thorough investigations found no evidence to support such claims. “We have investigated thoroughly, and there is nothing to support the idea that any member of the Armed Forces was involved in such activities. Soldiers were present to restore order, not to engage in criminal behavior,” Musa assured.
The meeting with President Tinubu was attended by high-ranking officials, including Vice President Kashim Shettima, Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, and National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu. Other security agency heads present included Major General Taoreed Lagbaja, Chief of Army Staff; Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, Chief of Naval Staff; Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, Chief of Air Staff; and Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun.
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Also in attendance were Yusuf Bichi, Director-General of the Department of State Service (DSS); Ahmed Rufai, Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA); Col. Adewale Adeniyi, Comptroller-General of the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS); and Kemi Nanna Nandap, Comptroller-General of the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS).
President Tinubu had earlier pleaded with the organizers of the nationwide protests to suspend their actions, highlighting the violence and destruction that have ensued. He warned against the use of protests to destabilize the country and assured that the government would not tolerate any attempts to undermine democracy.
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