Following the Guinea-Bissau coup, online discussions escalated in Nigeria. Mustapha Usman commented bluntly: “MILITARY IS FAR BETTER THAN CIVILIAN GOVERNMENT.”
This statement reflects a dangerous romanticization of authoritarian rule. Frustration with elected leadership in Nigeria is understandable, but praising military over civilian governance ignores the consequences: suppression of civil liberties, weakened institutions, instability, and the historical failures of coups in the region. The Nigerian Armed Forces exists to protect citizens, not replace democratic systems.
Normalizing armed takeovers as a solution teaches that force is superior to accountability and civic participation. Real reform comes from voting, civic engagement, advocacy, and institutional pressure—not applause for uniforms seizing power.
The red flag is clear: comments like Mustapha usman’s undermine democracy, encourage chaos, and glorify fear over informed choice.
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