A former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Babachir David Lawal has strongly criticized the Nigerian military and police for their stance on the upcoming nationwide protests planned by aggrieved Nigerians.
In a statement released on Wednesday in Abuja, Lawal highlighted the military’s failure to address the rampant insecurity posed by bandits, kidnappers, and insurgents, while attempting to suppress civilians’ right to protest.
Lawal criticized the police high command for issuing threats to would-be protesters instead of providing protection and ensuring peaceful demonstrations.
He also accused the military high command of issuing threats to discourage participation in the protests, driven by the political class and the ego of the Commander-in-Chief.
He pointed out that the military’s involvement in internal security is constitutionally the responsibility of the Nigerian Police Force, and their interference reveals a deeper issue of pervasive government corruption and inadequate equipment for fighting troops.
He suggested that the recent speedy amendment of the Police Act, seemingly to extend the current Inspector General’s tenure, might be influencing the police’s overzealous response to the planned protests.
Lawal further criticized religious leaders for discouraging participation in the protests, who he said are likely influenced by financial inducements from politicians and government agents.
He accused the government of panic, employing cash, threats, fear-mongering, and intimidation to suppress the protests.
While he called for calm, Lawal emphasized the right to protest is constitutionally guaranteed and that the severe hunger and anger among Nigerians have made the protests inevitable.
