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Russia breaks silence as Nigerians use its flag amid #EndBadGovernance protest

Published

5 months ago

August 6, 2024

The Russian Embassy in Nigeria has denied any involvement with the use of its flag by a group of protesters in northern Nigeria.

Amid the ongoing demonstration against hunger and bad governance, protesters were seen marching on the streets, carrying Russian flag and chanting slogans, while others held placards with various messages.

Russia, a global power with significant geopolitical influence, has been accused of involvement in recent political upheavals in several West African countries, including Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger.

This has sparked concerns about external interference in regional affairs.

But in a statement on Monday, the embassy emphasised that Russia does not interfere in the internal affairs of other countries, including Nigeria, and that the protesters’ actions do not reflect any official Russian government policy or position.

The statement said, “The Embassy has noted the reports in Nigerian media and the circulation of videos and images in digital media depicting protesters in northern states of the country carrying Russian flags and chanting slogans to Russian President Vladimir Putin.

“The Government of the Russian Federation as well as any Russian officials are not involved in these activities and do not coordinate them in any way.

“As always, we emphasize that Russia does not interfere in the domestic affairs of foreign states, including Nigeria. These intentions of some protesters to wave Russian flags are personal choices of individuals, and they do not reflect any official position or policy of the Russian Government in the issue.

“We respect Nigerian democracy and believe that peaceful demonstrations in conformity with the Nigerian law are a manifestation of democracy. However, should these events lead to any disruptions or acts of violence we strictly condemn them.”

General Chris Musa, Nigeria’s Chief of Defence, has labelled the action of such protesters as treasonable, saying the law would catch up with them.

Speaking after an emergency security session with President Bola Tinubu at Aso Rock, the General vowed that the law would catch up with such people.

Warning those calling for coup, Musa said the military had accepted democracy and regime change would never be allowed.

“We wanted to brief Mr President on the situation on ground and we know that since the riot has started all the security agencies you can see all of us together. Initially, when the riot started they said it was a peaceful one but we have realised that there are individuals that are willing to take advantage of it to cause mayhem. And we can see clearly what has happened since it has commenced. Criminals have taken over, a lot of looting taking place, stealing and all sorts happening.

“And besides, all of us have seen it where foreign flags have been flown within the sovereignty of Nigeria, and that is totally unacceptable. We are warning in clear terms and the President has also said we should convey this, that we will not accept anybody, any individual flying any foreign flag in Nigeria. That is treasonable offence, and it will be viewed and treated as such. So nobody shall allow himself to be used by any individual.