We’ve identified sponsors of planned nationwide protest – NOA

The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has revealed that it has pinpointed the sponsors behind the proposed nationwide protest.

Reports indicate that certain Nigerian groups are planning a nationwide demonstration from August 1 to 10, aimed at addressing the increasing cost of living and economic challenges in the country.

In a statement released on Thursday, Paul Odenyi, NOA’s deputy director of press, confirmed that the agency has “successfully” identified the sponsors of the protest and potential flashpoints where it might take place.

Odenyi quoted Lanre Issa-Onilu, the agency’s director-general, as stating that the protest organizers aim to “portray Nigeria as an unstable country to the international community.”

Issa-Onilu urged the protest organizers to opt for dialogue rather than disruptive actions.

“The identities of many key figures behind the protest, along with their collaborators living abroad, have been identified, and the government is taking necessary steps to thwart their subversive plans,” the statement said.

It further stated, “The motives of those behind the planned protest are not related to governance or economic conditions but are intended to destabilize the country, incite violence, and commit arson and other crimes for narrow political gains.”

The NOA is ramping up efforts in civil intelligence and is working to educate community leaders, parents, and youths across all 774 local governments about the importance of vigilance and preventive measures.

On July 3, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) reported that a “shadowy group” was organizing a protest against its operations.

Following this, the NOA announced that it has deployed 4,000 personnel nationwide to monitor the activities of the group behind the protest.