Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has accused a senator of sponsoring the ongoing protests in Abuja. During a security council meeting, Wike revealed that security agencies have gathered evidence implicating the senator in providing support to the protesters, including arranging food distribution.
“We have information that a senator arranged for some security agencies to distribute food to the protesters,” Wike stated. “This is a clear case of sponsorship.”
Wike assured that the senator would be summoned by security agencies to explain his involvement in these activities against the government.
Additionally, Wike disclosed intelligence reports suggesting plans by protesters to vandalize public property on Friday. “Today, we saw attempts by some individuals to enter Eagle Square,” Wike noted. “While they didn’t succeed, we have information that they plan to cause property damage tomorrow, potentially leading to loss of lives.”
He emphasized that security agencies would not allow such actions and urged protesters to use the MKO Abiola National Stadium for their demonstrations, as directed by the court. “We witnessed loss of lives in some states today. If such incidents occur in the FCT, it would draw significant criticism, especially with the international community conducting their businesses here,” he said.
The protests, which began on Thursday, are part of a youth-led nationwide movement against the rising cost of living. Despite government appeals for citizens to avoid participating, the demonstrations have persisted.
Wike reiterated the importance of adhering to the court order confining the protests to the Moshood Abiola National Stadium and highlighted the violence and fatalities reported elsewhere on the first day of the protest. He assured that security forces would prevent any attempts to hijack the protests and cause property damage.
“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 said.
The protests are expected to continue on Friday, with security agencies on high alert to prevent any escalation of violence.
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