As nationwide protests against hunger and bad governance entered their fifth day, President Bola Tinubu convened a National Security Council meeting on Monday at the State House in Abuja. The meeting addressed escalating security threats, including the controversial hoisting of Russian flags in several northern states.
General Christopher Musa, Chief of Defence Staff, condemned the display of Russian flags as a “treasonable offense,” emphasizing that such actions undermine Nigeria’s sovereignty. He warned that those responsible would face legal consequences and reaffirmed the military’s commitment to protecting the democratically elected government against any coup attempts.
The Chief of Defence Staff criticized the exploitation of the protests by criminal elements, noting instances of looting and unrest. He assured that the security agencies are working cohesively to maintain peace and restore order.
General Musa also addressed rumors of military involvement in looting, calling these claims misconceptions. He affirmed that thorough investigations have found no evidence of military personnel participating in such activities.
The National Security Council meeting included key officials such as Vice President Kashim Shettima, Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, and National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu. Heads of various security and law enforcement agencies, including the Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun and the Directors-General of the DSS and NIA, also attended.
