By kawaekwune Jeffrey
Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, has accused a serving senator of supporting the nationwide protests in Abuja.
The Minister also announced that security agencies have reportedly identified the senator as one of the financiers behind today’s nationwide anti-government protests.
Wike made this accusation during an emergency FCT Security Council meeting held on Thursday night in Abuja.
He stated that the senator allegedly arranged for security operatives to escort a truckload of food for the protesters, adding that the relevant agencies would summon the senator for questioning in due course.
While acknowledging that protests are a legitimate part of democracy, Wike emphasized that the demonstrators must respect the court order limiting their activities to the MKO Abiola National Stadium in Abuja.
He said:, “We have maintained that we will continue to brief the press as we monitor the protests against bad governance and hunger in the country. This is a democratic government, and we must adhere to the rule of law. Protests are a right, enabling the government to address the raised issues, but they must be conducted within legal boundaries.
“We are doing quite a lot to change the lives of the people.”
“You are aware of the court order from yesterday. The court did not stop protests; it only restricted them to the National Stadium.
“Today, some people attempted to move into Eagle Square. Miscreants may not have succeeded in their plans, but we have intelligence that they intend to destroy property tomorrow, leading to potential loss of lives. The security agencies will not permit this. Protesters must go to the MKO Abiola Stadium as directed by the court.”
Wike added:”We also have intelligence that a senator called upon security agencies to provide food for the protesters. This is sponsorship. At the appropriate time, security agencies will question the senator about sponsoring activities against the government.”
These development is coming amid a backdrop of growing public discontent and demonstrations against economic hardship and perceived government shortcomings. The government, while recognizing the right to protest, however insists on maintaining order and protecting public safety.
