The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has stated that security agencies have received intelligence indicating that a Senator is sponsoring the #EndBadGovernanceinNigeria protests against the government. The Minister made this statement during a press briefing following a security meeting with heads of security agencies in Abuja on Thursday.
The scheduled protests commenced yesterday in Abuja and various parts of the country, despite calls from government officials urging citizens to refrain from participating. Minister Wike stated that the Senator, who will be summoned for questioning by the relevant agencies in due course, accompanied security agents to deliver food to the protesters.
According to Wike, “We have also received intelligence that a Senator had to invite certain security agencies to accompany him in providing food for the protesters. A Senator providing sustenance for protesters. At the appropriate time, the security agencies will invite the Senator and ascertain the nature of his involvement in sponsoring this type of action against the government in power,” he stated. Wike further stated “We believe that this is a democratic government, and we must act in accordance with the rule of law. We also believe that this protest is the people’s entitlement so that the government can address the issues raised. Obeying the rule of law means obeying court orders.
“The government observed that some individuals attempted to move into Eagle Square yesterday. While the miscreants may not have succeeded in their intentions, the authorities have intelligence that they plan to return tomorrow to destroy property, which could lead to the loss of lives. The security agencies will not permit such actions. All protesters are hereby advised to conduct their demonstration at the MKO Abiola stadium, as stipulated by the court order.”
