The Russian Embassy in Nigeria has firmly distanced itself from the national flags seen during the recent nationwide protests. In response to reports of Russian flags being flown in cities like Abuja and Kano, the embassy clarified that neither the Russian government nor its officials had any involvement in this display.
In a statement released on Monday, the embassy addressed the situation, emphasizing that the Russian government did not coordinate or support the use of their national flags during the hunger protest. The statement read:
“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.”
In response, the Nigerian military declared that individuals displaying Russian flags during the protests are committing treason and will be prosecuted. Following a National Security Council meeting chaired by President Bola Tinubu at the Aso Rock Villa in Abuja, Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa stated, “That is totally unacceptable… that is a treasonable offense, and it will be viewed and treated as such.”
Additionally, the Nigerian Police announced on Monday the arrest of 31 individuals for producing and distributing Russian flags and calling for anarchy, labeling their actions as treasonous.
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