Following the flying of the Russian flags by some miscreants in the ongoing Nigeria nationwide protest, the Russian Embassy in Nigeria has issued a statement denying any form of involvement either directly or by proxy in the recent protests in Nigeria. The protests, which started on 1st August, 2024 as part of the #EndBadGovernance movement, some demonstrators in Kano and Kaduna states were sighted carrying Russian flags and chanting slogans in support of President Putin, while others held placards with various messages.
The development has raised concerns about potential external interference in Nigeria’s domestic affairs.
However, the Russian Embassy yesterday has clarified that the protesters’ actions do not reflect any official policy or viewpoint of the Russian government.
The embassy has reiterated Russia’s commitment to non-interference in the internal affairs of other nations, including Nigeria, and has reassured that it will continue to respects the sovereignty of Nigerian government as a country.
The embassy statement partly 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 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.”
