Nigerian security forces have detained over 900 protesters amid a wave of demonstrations against the government, many of which involved the display of Russian flags. These protests, initially sparked by economic hardships and the removal of fuel subsidies, have escalated, leading to significant unrest in several states including Kano, Kaduna, Katsina, and Bauchi.
The Nigeria Police Force confirmed the arrest of 30 individuals specifically for flying Russian flags. Among those apprehended was Ahmed Bello, a tailor from Kano, found in possession of a large number of these flags. Muyiwa Adejobi, the police spokesperson, highlighted that the police are also pursuing others involved, including the organizers and financial backers of the protests.
President Bola Tinubu has directed security agencies to take stringent measures against anyone displaying foreign flags. This directive was reinforced by General Christopher Musa, Chief of Defence Staff, who emphasized the unacceptability of foreign flags being flown within Nigerian borders, describing such actions as “treasonable offences.”
Gen. Musa stated, “Initially, when the protest started, they said it was a peaceful protest, but we have realised that there are individuals willing to take advantage of it to cause mayhem.” He noted that the protests had been hijacked by criminal elements, leading to looting and other forms of violence.
During a National Security Council meeting attended by top government and military officials, the ongoing protests and their security implications were thoroughly reviewed. Gen. Musa underscored the government’s stance against any form of protest that might threaten national sovereignty, saying, “Democracy is what we stand for; democracy is what we will continue to defend.”
President Tinubu, in a national broadcast, appealed to protesters to halt their actions due to the resulting violence and destruction of property. Security forces in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have ramped up efforts to prevent demonstrations, using teargas to disperse gatherings and arresting several participants.
In addition, the Department of State Services (DSS) reported the arrest of several tailors in Kano State responsible for manufacturing the Russian flags used in the protests. Governors in affected states have also held emergency security meetings, with some imposing curfews to curb the unrest.
The Russian Embassy in Nigeria has distanced itself from the protests, stating that the use of Russian flags does not reflect the official stance of the Russian government. The embassy affirmed Russia’s respect for Nigeria’s sovereignty and condemned any acts of violence.
