As nationwide protests against hunger and poor governance continued into their fifth day, President Bola Tinubu convened a critical National Security Council meeting at the State House in Abuja. The meeting, held on Monday, focused on various security threats facing Nigeria, including a troubling new trend of protesters displaying foreign flags in several northern states.
General Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defense Staff (CDS), addressed the media following the meeting, denouncing the act of hoisting Russian flags in Nigerian cities as a “treasonable offense.”
He emphasized that such actions are unacceptable and would be treated with the utmost seriousness under the law. General Musa specifically highlighted that protesters in Kano, Kaduna, Zamfara, and Plateau states had been observed with Russian flags since the previous Saturday, and warned that those responsible would face legal consequences.
In his statement, General Musa said, “We went to brief Mr President on the situation on ground and we know that since the riot (protest) started, all the security agencies are together.
“Initially, when the riot (protest) started they said it was a peaceful riot 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 of things are 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 offense, and it will be viewed and treated as such. So nobody shall allow himself to be used by any individual.”
General Musa further said, ” For those of them flying flags and if you’ll see a lot of them are kids being pushed to do that, we’re following up with those sponsoring them.
“Those who are pushing them because you know, flags were also made. We have identified those areas and we are going to take serious action against that.The President is clear on his instructions for us not to accept anyone that wants to disrupt the peace and tranquility of Nigeria.
“And we are all standing here together to show Nigerians that we’re working closely, we are working together with synergy to ensure that there’s still peace and tranquility in Nigeria, that we have assured Mr. President.”
