Russia distances itself from Nigerian protests; Defence chief condemns the ‘treasonable offense’ of flying Russian flag
The Russian embassy in Nigeria has stated that the Russian government is not involved in the use of its national flags during the ongoing #EndBadGovernance protests across Nigeria.
In a statement released on Monday, the embassy addressed reports and circulated videos showing protesters in northern Nigeria carrying Russian flags and chanting slogans to President Vladimir Putin.
“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 President Vladimir Putin,” the statement read.
The embassy clarified that neither the government nor its officials are connected to these activities.
“The Government of the Russian Federation as well as any officials are not involved in these activities and do not coordinate them in any way,” it stated. “As always, we emphasize that our government does not interfere in the domestic affairs of foreign states, including Nigeria.”
The embassy further explained that the actions of some protesters waving Russian flags are personal choices and do not represent any official stance or policy of the Russian government.
“They do not reflect any official position or policy of the Russian Government on the issue,” 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.”
Flying Russian flags is treasonable -CDS
Christopher Musa, the Nigerian Chief of defence staff (CDS) says it is a treasonable offence for #EndBadGovernance protesters to fly foreign flags in the country.
Musa spoke shortly after a meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the State House in Abuja on Monday.
“A lot of us have seen it where foreign flags have been flown within the sovereignty of Nigeria, and that is totally unacceptable,” the army chief said on Monday
“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 a treasonable offense, and it will be viewed and treated as such. So, nobody shall allow himself to be used by any individual.”
