The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has reported that security agents have received information about a Senator allegedly sponsoring the #EndBadGovernanceinNigeria protests.
At a press briefing following a security meeting in Abuja, Wike mentioned that the Senator in question is suspected of providing food to protesters with the assistance of security agents.
“Now we also have intelligence that a senator had to invite some security agencies to lead some of them to go and provide food for the protesters. That is sponsorship,” Wike stated.
He added that the Senator would be invited for questioning by relevant authorities at an appropriate time.
Wike urged protesters to adhere to court orders restricting demonstrations to the Moshood Abiola National Stadium. He emphasised, “We believe that this is a democratic government and so we must act according to the rule of law. We also believe that this protest is their entitlement so that the government can address the issues raised. Obeying the rule of law is obeying court orders.”
He also raised concerns about potential attempts by miscreants to hijack the protest and cause damage and violence, stating, “You saw what happened today when some people tried to move into Eagle Square. Miscreants may not have succeeded in what they wanted to do, but we have intelligence that they are coming out tomorrow to destroy property that will lead to loss of lives. The security agencies will not allow that.”
Wike reaffirmed the government’s commitment to upholding the rule of law while allowing citizens to exercise their right to protest peacefully.
