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Siege, a coup d’état, say ADC, Afenifere, others

By Seye Olumide
08 August 2018   |   4:21 am
The blockade of the National Assembly Complex by security operatives has attracted sharp criticisms from Nigerians, who considered the incidence as a coup d’état against the nation’s democratic process.

Department of State Services (DSS) vehicle and operatives blocking the main entrance of the complex… yesterday. PHOTO: Lucie Ladidi Elukpo

The blockade of the National Assembly Complex by security operatives has attracted sharp criticisms from Nigerians, who considered the incidence as a coup d’état against the nation’s democratic process. They expressed concern that if the legislative arm of government is persistently under threat, there is fear that the 2019 election may not hold.

While some called for the trial of Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Lawal Daura, others said the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) was on a mission to destroy democracy in the country.

Spokesman of Yoruba socio-cultural group, Afenifere, Mr. Yinka Odumakin, described the incidence as a coup-d’état that must be treated as a treasonable felony.
Besides, a former President of Aka Ikenga, Chief Goddy Uwazurike, said: “One consequence of the reported sack of the DG of the DSS is that Osinbajo made it clear that the siege of the National Assembly was without his approval.

“The phrase ‘orders from above’ did not mean that he authorised the siege. But the real issue will come when Buhari must choose between the Acting President and the DG of DSS. The cabal is very well-entrenched in the kitchen cabinet of the President, which Osinbajo does not belong.”

Also, Secretary-General, Nigerian National Summit Group (NNSG), Mr. Tony Uranta, said Nigerians were shocked and saddened that the malaise of political confusion and authoritarian impunity were ever allowed to descend to such an unbelievable level of lawlessness in the country.

In a similar vein, a female presidential aspirant on the platform of Alliance for New Nigeria (ANN), Dr. Elishama Ideh, faulted the development, saying: “It was a clear breach of law and order.”Ideh, who spoke at a press conference in Lagos yesterday, said the development was a clear case of lawlessness, disregard to the constitution and exhibition of desperation to retain power at all cost irrespective of the wishes of the electorate.

Meanwhile, National Chairman of Africa Democratic Congress (ADC), Chief Ralph Nwosu, said the only way to stop APC is by educating Nigerians on the shenanigans of the party.

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