IGP Egbetokun Announces Nigerian Security Agencies Have Blocked External Funding for #EndBadGovernance Protests
The Nigerian security agencies have successfully identified and blocked sources of external funding for the ongoing #EndBadGovernance protests, according to Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.
This announcement was made during a joint press briefing hosted by the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday.
IGP Egbetokun emphasized that the police have managed the crisis carefully, avoiding the use of water cannons or rubber bullets.
He also addressed the incident involving the shooting of an innocent protester in Kubwa, Abuja, clarifying that the force did not fire any gunshots or use force during the protests.
“Nobody fired gunshots and we didn’t use force. In the midst of the protest, we arrested criminals who stole and committed other offenses,” Egbetokun stated.
General Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff, highlighted that the military and security agencies are focusing on those advocating for an undemocratic change of government.
He acknowledged that some protesters calling for regime change were sponsored, and the military is working to bring these individuals to justice.
“I want to appreciate Nigerians for their understanding and commitment to upholding law and order,” General Musa said. “We have had issues in the past few days, but people have seen reason to stop the destruction, looting, and subversion of our nation.”
The CDS reassured the public that the military is committed to protecting the country and supporting President Bola Tinubu in achieving peace and tranquility in Nigeria.
He called for collaboration among all agencies to ensure success and emphasized the importance of calm, mediation, discussion, and dialogue toward national unity and cohesion.
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, reaffirmed the army’s commitment to combating protests that have turned violent while continuing their operations against terrorism and banditry.
He reported that the number of patrols, ambushes, and other security measures have not decreased, and efforts to maintain peace in Borno State are ongoing.
Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), stated that the navy continues to collaborate with other services and security agencies to ensure maritime security.
He noted that operations in the Niger Delta have led to increased oil output and revenue generation, crucial for meeting the needs of the citizens.
Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), reiterated the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment to all operational engagements of the armed forces and the defense of the nation’s territorial integrity.
Comptroller-General of Immigration Services (NIS), Kemi Nandap, announced that sponsors of the protests have been placed on a watchlist and will be arrested upon entry into Nigeria. She revealed that the NIS has increased border surveillance to prevent foreign intervention.
Comptroller-General of Customs Service (NCS), Bashir Adeniyi, reported that the service will begin implementing tax waivers on imported food items and pharmaceuticals next week. He emphasized that this policy aims to reduce food prices and alleviate hunger, following President Tinubu’s directive.
Spokesman for the Department of State Services (DSS), Dr. Peter Afunanya, confirmed that some sponsors of the protests displaying foreign flags have been arrested, with their identities to be disclosed soon.
The joint briefing demonstrated the united front of Nigeria’s military and security agencies in addressing the protests and ensuring national security.
