Abuja – Minister of Defence Christopher Musa has cautioned Nigerians against protests that could be exploited by criminal elements, even as he affirmed the right to peaceful demonstration.
The retired general issued the warning recently amid concerns over social media mobilisation for public actions. He noted that while no one is stopping protests, citizens must consider potential risks.
Musa emphasised that such gatherings could be hijacked, resulting in injuries or loss of lives. "Nobody is stopping anyone from protesting, but we should always remember the unintended consequences, because these protests might be hijacked and people might be killed or injured," he stated.
His remarks come against a backdrop of recurring security challenges, including past incidents during nationwide demonstrations. In 2024, as Chief of Defence Staff, Musa addressed similar issues during the #EndBadGovernance protests, where initial peaceful actions turned violent with looting and destruction in several states.
He had warned then that the military would intervene professionally if situations escalated beyond police control. "We will not fold our hands and see our country destroyed," Musa said in that briefing, stressing actions would lead to arrests and prosecutions.
Recent statements from the minister also highlight the role of social media in spreading falsehoods and recruiting for unrest. Speaking at a June 12 event, he described it as a tool to distort truth and weaken unity.
Musa urged verification of information and rejection of narratives that fuel division. He pointed out how old videos or foreign content are often repurposed to create panic or undermine institutions.
As Minister of Defence, Musa continues to navigate complex security dynamics. Critics, including some northern youth groups earlier this year, have called for his resignation over persistent insecurity, citing attacks and casualties.
Supporters, however, point to his experience and ongoing reforms. Coalitions have defended his efforts, urging focus on collaboration rather than blame.
The minister has repeatedly appealed for national unity. He described security forces and citizens as shared victims of violence, calling for collective support to address threats like banditry, kidnapping, and emerging digital risks.
In his messages, Musa advocates non-kinetic approaches, including engaging youths to counter extremist ideologies. He stresses adaptation, as threats evolve with technology and divisions.
Public reactions on X (formerly Twitter) reflect divided views. Some users echoed his caution, sharing warnings about hijacking and consequences. Others questioned priorities, urging focus on tackling bandits and terrorists over protest threats.
Analysts note that while protests remain a constitutional right, the history of violence in Nigeria underscores the need for vigilance. Past events saw property damage, including public infrastructure, setting back development.
Musa's position balances acknowledgment of grievances with calls for restraint. He has assured that security agencies will maintain professionalism while protecting lives and property.
As Nigeria grapples with economic and security pressures, his latest intervention aims to prevent avoidable escalation. Stakeholders continue to monitor developments for peaceful resolutions.
The Defence Minister's full speeches often tie warnings to broader appeals for patriotism. He encourages working with governments at all levels to avoid mayhem and foster progress.
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