Concerns have continued to trail the new dimension introduced to the ongoing hardship protests where protesters are seen flying the Russian flag in some locations in the country.
In Abuja, Nigeria’s seat of power, Kaduna, Kano and a couple of other cities, excited protesters boldly waved the red, blue and white-coloured flag as they protested on Monday, raising fears of a fresh twist to the already charged atmosphere in the country since the protests began on August 1.
Speaking with the Nigerian Tribune, a former Director of the Department of State Services (DSS), Mr Mike Ejiofor, described the action of the protesters as a “dangerous development” and a dimension that must be stopped immediately.
Ejiofor observed that the development pointed to the possibility of foreign influence in the protests, even though it might be hasty to conclude that there were also internal collaborators.
He noted that on the surface, it followed the trend in some neighbouring West African countries where foreign interests, particularly Russia, preceded the disruption of their governance structures.
He stated, “This is a dangerous development, in view of the fact that intelligence from the SSS before these protests, suggested that they (protesters) have foreign support.
“Even if they don’t have people inside supporting it, there is bound to be some infiltration. Don’t also forget the role Russia is playing in Niger and Burkina Faso and the proximity to Nigeria; they can exploit it and use some of these disgruntled elements.
“However, I believe that the government should, using the security agencies, be on top of the situation, to nip in the bud, any nefarious activities..
“The citizens on their part should be very security conscious by giving information to the security agencies.
“We are still contending with internal security challenges, then now you have foreign elements; that will be very bad for us.”
The former secret police chief, who called for the arrest and prosecution of those openly waving the Russian flag, warned that if the matter was treated with levity, it could in the long run, undermine the sovereignty of Nigeria if it festered
“I wouldn’t say it will undermine Nigeria’s sovereignty as we speak, but the fact remains that it can’t be downplayed.
“That is why the government should view it seriously, identify those behind it and possibly prosecute them because if it is allowed to fester, it will undermine our sovereignty.”
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