The Russian Embassy in Nigeria has stated that the Russian government had no involvement with the national flags displayed during the nationwide protest.
Tribune Online reported earlier that individuals were seen flying Russian flags in Abuja, Kano, and Jos, among other places.
In a statement released on Monday, the embassy stated that neither the Russian government nor its officials were connected to the trend of flying national flags during the hunger protest.
The statement reads, “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 emphasise 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 on the issue.
“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.”
Meanwhile, the Nigerian military on Monday declared that individuals displaying Russian flags during the nationwide 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 declared, “That is totally unacceptable… that is a treasonable offence, and it will be viewed and treated as such.”
Similarly, the Nigerian Police Force said on Monday that it has arrested 31 people for what it described as treason by producing and distributing Russian flags and calling for anarchy.
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