The Nigeria Police Force has alleged that N9 billion was allocated to incite chaos across Nigeria during the #EndBadGovernance protests, according to police spokesperson Muyiwa Adejobi.
In a recent interview, Adejobi emphasized that security agencies had gathered intelligence indicating that foreign operatives and domestic actors planned to hijack the protests for financial and political gain.
Adejobi explained that the police consistently receive intelligence reports from various sources, including the Department of State Services (DSS) and the CIA, which are analyzed through a shared intelligence hub within the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA).
According to Adejobi, this intelligence suggested that certain foreign mercenaries intended to exploit the protest as a means of destabilizing Nigeria, adding, “People think we lie when we make such statements, but this is our job—to analyze intelligence and protect the country.”
The police spokesperson revealed that intelligence was gathered about a key figure allegedly involved in similar disruptions across multiple African countries. Adejobi noted, “Some individuals have been implicated in crises spanning seven to nine African nations. We’ve accumulated critical evidence to support these claims, which we intend to present in court rather than in the media at this stage.”
In discussing the #EndBadGovernance protests, Adejobi claimed that opportunists took advantage of the demonstrations to raise substantial funds.
“Certain groups seized on the public’s discontent, not for the purpose of peaceful protest, but to collect financial support under the guise of activism. They reportedly obtained around N9 billion to fund activities aimed at inciting disruption across Nigeria,” he stated, adding that conversations had been intercepted pointing to such planned disruptions.
The police spokesperson underscored the significance of security agencies’ role in analyzing and responding to potential threats.
Adejobi acknowledged that many Nigerians were motivated by genuine concerns in joining the protests but cautioned that foreign interests may exploit such movements for ulterior motives. He concluded that the police have assembled enough evidence to “nail those responsible” and reiterated that the authorities will seek justice through proper legal channels.
This revelation has prompted calls from various quarters for further investigation into the financing of public demonstrations and the potential influence of foreign actors on Nigerian civil affairs.
