The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has called out those behind the agitation for a coup against the government of President Bola Tinubu to desist or face the consequences.
In a press statement disclosed by the Director of Information, Press, and Public Relations, Henshaw Ogubike, it was noted that Mr. Matawalle described “those calling for the undemocratic change of government as agents of darkness.“
More so, he warned “the coup mongers calling for the unconstitutional change of government of President Bola Tinubu to desist from their inglorious calling.”
He went further to state that “the government would not treat those behind it with kid gloves.”
The defence minister said that such a call for violent change by the military is absurd, preposterous, and naive, as the military has come to reality with a democratic government in Nigeria and is focused on their official duty of defending the constitution.
The minister also cautioned against the perilous temptation, asserting that “those calling for coup do not love Nigeria. Under the present government, there will be no military takeover of power.”
He stressed the need for elected leaders to lead, while the military carries out its duties in protecting the constitution.
“The harbingers of this evil thought are agents of destabilization, as Nigeria has a democratic government in place, democracy is in action under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, and the dividends of democracy are being delivered.”
Furthermore, it was noted that the administration of the President has allowed citizens to express themselves, which is one of the key elements of democracy, and that fundamental human rights are being respected as well.
Adding that “some mischief makers posted viral videos and incited statements on the media depicting a false situation and impression and encouraging the military to truncate the constitution, which they will never do because they have been aligned with democratic culture, which makes coups no longer fashionable.“
Due to this and other factors, the Ministry of Defence warned those advocating for the overthrow of the constitutional government to cease their actions and acknowledge democratic reality.
He then instructed the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) to pursue and apprehend these individuals, ensuring they face justice for their crimes against democracy.
The statement explained that Nigeria is a peaceful nation where citizens thrive in enterprise.
He explained that despite isolated incidents like attacks on a warehouse and a food transport vehicle, there’s no justification for unpatriotic calls for military intervention. Therefore, the military will maintain a high level of professionalism and foster strong civil-military relations.
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“I urge all Nigerians to come together to support and keep faith with the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, in his efforts at making Nigeria great,” he added.
However, Mr. Matawalle reassured “the commitment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to defend the constitution and uphold democracy” and also declared to “the public the military readiness to ensure the safety and security of the nation.”
