General Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff, warned that the Armed Forces and security agencies would not fold their arms and monitor while the nation burns, calling on groups opposing hardship in the nation to prevent anything or actions that could lead to anarchy and destruction.
His words: “Let us prevent anything that would bring anarchy into our towns. The degree of damage done simply on Thursday is evident. You can therefore picture if this goes on for much longer.
“At first, what we observed was some sort of a fairly calm demonstration, but soon a lot of crooks with bad intentions took over.
“And as you recall, we had cautioned that once this gets underway, certain people were prepared to wre havoc. I therefore want to appeal to Nigerians to realise that the federal administration is acting in the best of intentions for their nation.
“The military forces and the whole security services will not let that continue without intervention. We wish to alert people living in the house—that is, those seated at home—those who refuse to pay attention. We will not fold our hands to witness our nation devastated.
“We will act professionally and hence will take action. Anybody caught will be brought before the courts to be handled.
Gen Musa continued, “The government has truly proved its own commitment by maintaining its promise of letting individuals associate freely, The security forces have clearly performed rather effectively, and I would want to particularly highlight the professionalism displayed by the Nigerian police force in particular about where elements of the armed forces had to intervene.
As long as the people realise that there is a distinction between peace and criminal activity, we will keep being quite professional in our behaviour.
“I have seen plans developed to handle the local economic condition and security issues. Things are starting to get better.
“We can create complete peace and the economy will flourish if everyone of us supports one another. I was in the Niger Delta a few days ago to also guarantee that our output rises right away to provide adequate money to run our country. I so urge all Nigerians to grasp the government.
“There are many difficulties here if you hold grudges, which I know people have. Not only in Nigeria, yet, also elsewhere. One economic or security issue or the other is present everywhere.
