Nigerian Defence Warns Against Calls for Military Coup and Flying of Foreign Flags

 

In a firm response to the growing agitation for military rule and the flying of Russian flags by some protesters, the Nigerian Defence issued a stern warning to citizens on Monday. The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Mustapha, addressed journalists following an emergency meeting with President Bola Tinubu, emphasizing that such actions are treasonable offences and will not be tolerated.

Defence Chief's Stern Warning

General Mustapha made it clear that any individuals or groups calling for a military coup or flying foreign flags within Nigeria are committing serious crimes against the state. He stated unequivocally that the Nigerian military is committed to upholding democracy and will not entertain any attempts to destabilize the current democratic regime.

"All of us have seen it where foreign flags have been flown within the sovereignty of Nigeria, and that is totally unacceptable. We are warning in clear terms, and the President has also said we should convey this, that we will not accept anybody, any individual flying any foreign flag in Nigeria,” General Mustapha asserted. “That is a treasonable offence, and it will be viewed and treated as such. So nobody shall allow himself to be used by any individual.”

Democracy Stands Firm

Addressing the calls for a coup, General Mustapha reiterated the military’s staunch support for democracy, stating, “Nigeria is a sovereign nation, Nigeria is a democratic nation. All security agencies are here to defend democracy and ensure that democracy continues to thrive. We will not accept anyone pushing or taking any action, seemingly or for whatever reason, to want to push for any change of government. Democracy is what we stand for, democracy is what we will continue to defend.”

Context of Protests

The warnings come amidst the ongoing EndBadGovernance protests, where Nigerian youths have taken to the streets in various states to express their dissatisfaction with the high cost of living and other economic challenges. During these protests, some participants were seen flying Russian flags and calling for a military takeover, actions which have now been explicitly condemned by the Nigerian Defence.

Legal Consequences

General Mustapha vowed that those engaging in these treasonable acts would face the full force of the law. “The law will catch up with such people,” he stated, making it clear that the government will not tolerate any threats to Nigeria’s democratic stability.

Key Points:

• Stern Warning: Flying foreign flags and calling for a military coup are treasonable offences.
• Support for Democracy: The Nigerian military remains committed to defending and upholding democracy.
• Legal Consequences: Individuals engaging in these acts will face severe legal repercussions.
• Protest Context: Actions taken by some EndBadGovernance protesters have prompted this response.