In a move reminiscent of the EndSARS protests in 2020, the Nigerian military has urged both local and international media to cease coverage of the ongoing nationwide protests against economic hardships under President Bola Tinubu’s government.
Chief of Defence Staff, Christopher Musa, made the appeal during a press briefing on Friday, stating, “For the media, I want to appeal, I noticed yesterday all the stations are hooked up to the occasion.
This is not an election. Don’t give them that coverage.”
Musa attributed the protests to “attention seekers” who crave media attention, saying, “Some of them (protesters) are looking for moments to be on the screen. Together, I can assure you we are going to win.”
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This request for a media blackout comes amidst reports of disrupted commercial activities, thousands of protesters taking to the streets, and at least 11 fatalities on the first day of demonstrations.
The Nigerian military’s attempt to control media coverage raises concerns about transparency and freedom of information.
The move mirrors the actions taken during the EndSARS protests, where electricity and telecom networks were disrupted before soldiers opened fire on protesters.
The international community is watching as the situation unfolds.
