The Nigeria Renaissance Group (NRG), a pro-democracy civil rights organisation, has raised alarm over an alleged plot to stage coordinated protests aimed at discrediting key officials in President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the group claimed that the planned demonstrations are not a reflection of genuine public discontent but are “deliberate acts of blackmail” designed to undermine national stability.

“This is not about protest—this is about sabotage,” said NRG spokesperson, Comrade Mohammed Lawal. “Our intelligence suggests a well-funded effort to incite unrest and malign respected public figures who are working tirelessly to steer the country in the right direction.”

The group said top government officials, including Attorney General of the Federation, Chief Lateef Fagbemi; Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Chief George Akume; Senate President, Godswill Akpabio; and EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, are the primary targets of the alleged smear campaign.

“These individuals are not perfect, but they are patriots,” Lawal added. “Dragging their names through the mud for political gain is not just unfair—it’s dangerous for our democracy.”

He also cautioned Nigerian youths against being used as tools in what the group described as a “deceptive mobilisation strategy.”

“Young people must ask themselves who stands to gain from these protests,” he said. “Don’t allow yourselves to be used by those who once benefited from this country but have now turned their backs on it.”

While reaffirming the group’s commitment to democratic freedoms, Lawal made a clear distinction between genuine civic action and politically motivated agitation.

“We unequivocally support peaceful protests driven by truth and justice,” he said. “But we will never endorse protests rooted in lies, manipulation, and vendettas.”

Calling on security agencies to be vigilant, Lawal urged them to ensure that any public gatherings remain peaceful and lawful.

“This is a time for wisdom, not chaos. Let’s choose dialogue over division, and truth over theatrics,” he concluded.

The NRG pledged to continue monitoring developments and to “stand firm in defence of Nigeria’s unity, peace, and democratic progress.”