The Defense Headquarters (DHQ) yesterday labeled the recent Yoruba Nation agitations in the Southwest as “laughable,” and simultaneously alerted Nigerians about potential attempts by terrorists to undermine military operations through disinformation.
Vanguard reported that during a press briefing in Abuja, Maj. Gen. Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, discussed the recent activities of the Yoruba Nation agitators who last Saturday, donned military gear and stormed the Oyo State Secretariat, leading to the arrest of 29 individuals after a failed attempt to occupy the State House of Assembly.
He criticized these movements as detrimental to national security.
Maj. Gen. Buba commented on the broader implications of such agitations: “The agitation of IPOB in the South East has proven to be for self-aggrandizement. Then, the call for a Yoruba Nation is laughable. All these buttress how our security situation is self-inflicted in the country.”
He further warned against the escalation of violence and unconstitutional actions: “These acts are against the constitution and therefore, unacceptable for persons or groups to take up arms against a constituted government. Anyone or group that contravenes this provision of the constitution is inviting severe military action and would be dealt with decisively.”
Buba also raised concerns about terrorists exploiting the military’s aggressive campaigns to foster negative perceptions: “It, therefore, should not be surprising, that these terrorists and their sympathisers plot to blackmail the military as a result of these airstrikes. The plot is to depict some casualties as innocent citizens rather than cohorts of this terrorist. It is therefore important for the media to be wary of the antics of these terrorist groups and their sympathisers. Our operations have prevented these evil elements from accomplishing their strategic objectives.”
In related developments, the Oyo State Government defended its demolition of buildings associated with Yoruba Nation agitators, citing security threats.
William Akin-Funmilayo, the Commissioner for Lands, Housing, Survey, and Urban Development, affirmed the demolition was executed following the discovery of dangerous weapons in the premises linked to the agitators, “The demolition was carried out two days ago. We obtained a court order from the High Court on April 16, 2024, to demolish the building, having got information that the Yoruba Nation agitators used the place. This building belongs to them. It houses dangerous weapons.”
The commissioner urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities, emphasizing the government’s commitment to maintaining peace and security.
