
President Muhammadu Buhari, Monday warned against any act of Holiganism perpetrated under lawful and peaceful protests, promising that they will be decisively dealt with to ensure peace and stability in the country.
Buhari’s warning came just as some Nigerians were preparing to take to the streets again on continuation of the #EndSARS protests in some cities in the country.
However, this is coming even as some stakeholders have condemned the warning by the police that any further protest will be regarded as treason.
But, Liborus Oshoma, speaking on the Arisetv Morning Show on Monday said the comment by the police authorities was unfortunate and further justification by some Nigerians who regard most actions of the police as being based on either lack of understanding of the law or refusal to take corrections, particularly as they relate to human rights.
However, Buhari who gave the warning while declaring the Chief of Army Staff’s Annual Conference, 2020 open said anyone who commits acts capable of disrupting the peace and stability will be dealt with.
However, Buhari who gave the warning while declaring the Chief of Army Staff’s Annual Conference, 2020 open said anyone who commits acts capable of disrupting the peace and stability will be dealt with.
He commended the Nigerian Armed Forces for their efforts at restoring law and order in various states during the unrest in the wake of the #End SARS protests.
Buhari, however, reiterated the rights of citizens to embark on peaceful demonstrations.
The President recalled that the End SARS protest was hijacked by hooligans across Nigeria.
He described the year 2020 as a challenging one, citing the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic and its negative impact.
Despite the President’s warning, fresh End SARS protests have resumed in Lagos and Ibadan, the Oyo state capital, further heightening the tension in the country.