The Nigerian security agencies have announced the arrest of key sponsors behind recent riots where protesters brandished foreign flags and called for a change in government.
Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun confirmed that several high-profile sponsors are now in custody, with investigations underway to uncover their motivations.
Comptroller General of the Nigerian Immigration Service, Kemi Nandap, revealed that some of these sponsors are based abroad.
“We have identified and confirmed that some of the sponsors of the subversive actions and rioters are actually in the Diasporas,” Nandap stated.
She assured that these individuals have been watch-listed, and any attempt to enter the country will trigger immediate action by the appropriate agencies.
The IGP further disclosed that both domestic and international funders of the violence have been identified, with their accounts blocked to disrupt further financing.
“Funders of the violence and subversion both within and outside the country have been tracked and their sources of funding stopped,” Egbetokun stated.
During a joint media briefing held at the Defence Headquarters on Tuesday, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, emphasized the commitment of the security agencies to maintaining peace and stability.
“The only people we are after are those who don’t mean well for our country,” Musa asserted, underscoring the security forces’ dedication to professionalism and the protection of citizens.
IGP Egbetokun noted that the police have managed the crisis with restraint, opting to use tear gas rather than deploying water cannons or live ammunition.
Addressing the reported shooting of an innocent protester in Kubwa, Abuja, he clarified that the incident was not the work of police operatives but likely the result of criminal activities by armed robbers or hoodlums.
“Since August 1, nobody has fired gunshots, and we didn’t use force on innocent protesters,” Egbetokun said.
Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja, reassured the public that the Nigerian Army remains committed to protecting democracy, peace, and harmony in the country.
He urged the youth to avoid violence, stressing that the Army will continue to collaborate with other security agencies to maintain stability.
Dr. Peter Afunanya, spokesman for the Department of State Services (DSS), confirmed the arrest of several sponsors involved in distributing foreign flags, promising that their identities would soon be revealed.
This coordinated effort by the security agencies highlights their resolve to uphold national security and counter subversive activities, ensuring the safety and well-being of all Nigerian citizens.