The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has issued a stern warning to individuals advocating for a coup in Nigeria, labeling them as “criminals and enemies of democracy” and vowing to bring them to justice.

In a statement released on Thursday, the Defence Intelligence Agency was directed to take action against those promoting the unconstitutional change of government. Matawalle expressed strong disapproval of the coup narratives circulating in the country.

“The call for violent change of government by the military is absurd, preposterous and naive as the military has come to reality with a democratic government in Nigeria and are focused on their constitutional duty of defending the constitution,” the statement emphasized.

Matawalle asserted that there would be no forceful takeover of power under the present government. He stated, “Those calling for a coup do not love Nigeria. Under the present government, there will be no military takeover of power.”

The Minister highlighted the commitment of the current administration, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to democratic principles and the rule of law. He condemned individuals disseminating false information and videos encouraging military intervention.

“In addition, some mischief makers posted viral videos and inciting statements on the media depicting a false situation and impression and encouraging the Military to truncate the constitution which they will never do because they have been aligned with the democratic culture which makes coup no longer fashionable,” Matawalle remarked.

He disclosed that he had directed the DIA to apprehend anyone involved in promoting a coup, emphasizing the government’s commitment to preserving democratic values.

“However, consequent to this and other extenuating factors, the Ministry of Defence is warning all the propagators calling for the truncation of the constitutional government to desist from it and face the democratic reality on the ground as the Minister of State for Defence has directed DIA to go after the criminals and enemies of democracy and bring them to justice,” the statement concluded.