The National Security Council has issued a stern warning against any attempts to change the government, describing the use of foreign flags during protests as treasonous.

This follows a trending video showing protesters openly inviting the military to take over the government. Speaking after a meeting presided over by President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, on Monday, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Christopher Musa said the military would pursue protesters bearing foreign flags, as this undermines the country’s sovereignty.

“The action is treasonous, and President Tinubu has directed that such activities must not be tolerated,” General Musa stated.

He also noted that the #EndBadGovernance protests, which began peacefully, had devolved into riots, prompting the military to intervene.

“We briefed the President on the situation, and we know that since the riots started, criminals have taken advantage, resulting in looting and other unlawful activities. The display of foreign flags within Nigeria’s borders is unacceptable,” he said.

General Musa warned that anyone flying foreign flags or pushing for a change of government would face severe consequences. He emphasised that Nigeria is a sovereign, democratic nation, and the military is committed to defending democracy.

The National Security Council meeting, attended by all heads of security and law enforcement agencies, including Vice President Kashim Shettima, Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, and others, resulted in the indefinite postponement of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting initially scheduled for the day.

General Musa denied reports of soldiers participating in looting during the protests, clarifying that investigations revealed no such involvement by the Armed Forces.

The ongoing nationwide #EndBadGovernance protests continued in Abuja on Monday despite President Tinubu’s attempts to pacify Nigerians in his Sunday national broadcast. The President has given clear instructions to prevent any attempts to disrupt the peace and stability of Nigeria, and the security agencies are working in unison to ensure this directive is upheld.