The Russian Embassy in Nigeria has refuted any association with the use of its flag by protesters in northern Nigeria.
Demonstrators were observed marching with Russian flags, chanting slogans, and holding various placards.
Russia, a major global power, has been accused of involvement in recent political unrest in West African nations like Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, raising concerns about foreign interference in the region.
In a statement released on Monday, the embassy clarified that Russia does not meddle in the internal affairs of other countries, including Nigeria, and that the protesters’ actions do not represent any official stance or policy of the Russian government.
The statement read, “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 emphasize 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 in the issue.
“We respect Nigerian democracy and believe that peaceful demonstrations in conformity with the Nigerian law are a manifestation of democracy. However, should these events lead to any disruptions or acts of violence, we strictly condemn them.”
General Chris Musa, Nigeria’s Chief of Defence, has described the actions of these protesters as treasonous, warning that they would face legal consequences.
