With great condemnation, the Nigerian Army has denounced the “unprovoked attack on troops and patrol vehicles in a recent protest that occurred along Lafia-Makurdi Road in Nasarawa State.”
The main thoroughfare was blocked by demonstrators during the demonstration in response to the Court of Appeal’s decision over the state’s gubernatorial election.
The protestors’ acts, which included blocking a key highway, causing severe traffic congestion for drivers, and attacking military patrol vehicles, deeply trouble and disappoint the Army Public Relations Directorate, Brig Gen Onyema Nwachukwu, in a statement.
Sadly, the same group of demonstrators who damaged patrol cars carrying soldiers performing their lawful duties have now turned around and falsely claimed that the troops’ convoy collided with the demonstrators.
“It is documented via video footage and still photos of the demonstration that the forces handled the crowd dispersal in a professional manner, making sure that residents were safe and safeguarding public property.
It is sufficient to say that the Nigerian Army respects and acknowledges citizens’ rights to peacefully demonstrate their complaints.
But it’s important to stress that these protests have to stay inside the legal boundaries in order to protect everyone’s safety and security.
“It is unacceptable and goes against the principles of peaceful protest to resort to violence, destroy public property, and attack security personnel.”
In addition to ensuring everyone’s safety—including the demonstrators and public infrastructure—our forces were sent in to uphold law and order.
Their major goal was to prevent further escalation of violence and to keep peace while adhering to tight rules of engagement.
“Not only did the demonstrators endanger the lives of our personnel, but they also compromised the peaceful nature of the protest by throwing stones at troops and attacking patrol cars.”
“The Nigerian Army encourages everyone participating in protests, regardless of their affiliation, to show restraint and have productive, nonviolent communication.
“Using violence to address issues only makes them worse and impedes efforts to find solutions.”
In order to foster peace and harmony in their communities, we call on community and religious leaders as well as other interested parties to contribute.
The Nigerian Army is dedicated to ensuring the safety and protection of all citizens, and we reassure the public that this will not change.
For the protection and security of the citizens of Nasarawa State and the entire country, we shall keep up our close collaboration with other security services. Violence in any kind will not be accepted.
“We also implore the public and media to report and distribute information with prudence, making sure it is accurate and fair. Together, let’s create a wealthy and peaceful Nigeria.
