THE Defence Headquarters (DHQ), has issued a strong warning to planned protest by any group saying the Nigerian military and other security agencies in the country, would not tolerate any act that threatens nation’s security.
In a terse message signed by the Acting Director of Defence Information (DDI), Brigadier-General Rabe Abubakar, the DHQ, said its warning followed threats by a group to embark on protest.
Though, the DHQ did not mention any group, recent reports had quoted the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), as threatening to carry out a one million-man protest against alleged ill-treatment being directed at the region, since the inauguration of the current administration of President Muhammadu Buhari.
The DHQ’s statement reads: “The attention of the DHQ has been drawn to some newspaper publications by a group of persons threatening to embark on acts of sabotage against the Nigerian State.
“The DHQ hereby warned that the military and other security agencies will not condone any act by individuals or group that is capable of posing breach to security and economic sabotage in the Niger Delta or in any part of the country. This is because the nation’s interest is above any individual or group’s interest.
“In as much as the military recognizes the supremacy of the Constitution which guarantees freedom of expression and association, the constitution also frowns against individuals or groups hiding under it to stir trouble and insecurity in the land.
“Any individual or groups who have genuine complain or grievances should use the available means of dialogue for amicable resolution but certainly not violence, as it will not be tolerated.”
It, however, assured that “The DHQ will continue to partner with other security agencies to protect and provide enabling environment to all citizens to engage in their respective and legitimate businesses without fear of molestation.”