The Nigerian military has issued a warning that it may step in if violence continues to escalate during the ongoing #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protests.
The protests, which began on Thursday, have already seen clashes between police and protesters in several states, including Abuja, Kano, and Kaduna.
Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, addressed the nation from Abuja, expressing concern over the looting and violence. He emphasized that the military would not hesitate to act if the situation worsens.
So far, at least 17 people have been reported dead, and businesses across several states have been forced to close as major roads remain deserted.
The protests continued into Friday, with police and protesters clashing in different areas.
General Musa acknowledged the economic challenges driving the protests, but urged Nigerians to avoid violence in “these trying times.”
“The Armed Forces and the entire security agencies will not stand by and see that to continue. We want to warn those that are recalcitrant; those that don’t want to listen that we will not fold our arms and allow this country to be destroyed,” he added.
In Abuja, police attempted to disperse protesters on Friday, leading to injuries, including some journalists.
Protesters, refusing to be confined to a single location as ordered by the court, were met with tear gas and live ammunition near the National Hospital area.
Despite the police crackdown, protesters remained defiant, continuing their demonstrations at different locations, including the Berger Roundabout.
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has also reported engaging in a gunfight with alleged hoodlums who they claim were taking advantage of the protests to rob and assault citizens.
The police have directed medical personnel to report anyone with gunshot wounds to the nearest station.
The situation remains tense as protesters vow to continue until their demands are met by the government.
