The Russian Embassy in Nigeria has clarified that the Russian government had no involvement with the national flags displayed during the recent nationwide protests. This statement comes after individuals were seen flying Russian flags in various locations, including Abuja and Kano.
In a statement released on Monday, the embassy emphasized that neither the Russian government nor its officials were connected to the trend of flying Russian flags during the hunger protests. 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."
The embassy further stated that Russia does not interfere in the domestic affairs of foreign states, including Nigeria. They highlighted that the decision to wave Russian flags was a personal choice of individuals and did not reflect any official position or policy of the Russian Government.
The statement continued:
"We respect Nigerian democracy and believe that peaceful demonstrations in conformity with 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 on Monday, 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 that they have arrested 31 individuals for treason related to the production and distribution of Russian flags and inciting anarchy during the protests.
