…Russia disown flag-holders
The Nigerian government will not tolerate calls for coups and the hoisting of foreign flags by some protesters, defence chief Christopher Musa said after a meeting between security chiefs and President Bola Tinubu on Monday.
Mr Musa said the meeting discussed the calls for a coup and the hoisting of Russian flags by some protesters in some northern states like Kaduna and Kano.
“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,” the army general said. “That is a treasonable offence, and it will be viewed and treated as such. So nobody shall allow himself to be used by any individual.”
On the calls for a coup, Mr Musa said, “Nigeria is a sovereign nation. Nigeria is a democratic nation. All security agencies are here to defend democracy and ensure that democracy continues to strive.”
“We will not accept anyone pushing or taking any action, seemingly or for whatever reason, to want to push for any change of government.”
Protesters in Kaduna raised Russian flags and called for a coup on Monday, a day after some had made similar calls in Kano.
The protesters were taking advantage of the #EndBadGovernance protests across Nigeria where protesters are calling for economic and political reforms.
Meanwhile, the Russian embassy in Nigeria has denied links with protesters raising Russian flags, stating it respects the Nigeria’s democracy
The statement read, “The Embassy has taken note of reports in Nigerian media and the circulation of videos and images online that depict protesters in northern Nigeria carrying Russian flags and chanting slogans in support of Russian President Vladimir Putin.
“The Government of the Russian Federation, along with any Russian officials, is not involved in these activities and does not coordinate them in any respect.
“We reaffirm that Russia does not interfere in the domestic affairs of foreign states, including Nigeria. The decision of some individuals to wave Russian flags is a personal choice and does not reflect any official stance or policy of the Russian Government.
“We respect Nigerian democracy and believe that peaceful demonstrations in accordance with Nigerian law are a vital expression of democratic values. However, we unequivocally condemn any actions that lead to disruptions or violence.”
Pacesetter/Premium Times
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