In a concerning development, Nigeria’s security agencies have launched an investigation into four prominent politicians from northern Nigeria following the controversial use of Russian flags during recent #EndBadGovernance protests. This use of foreign symbols has raised alarms among authorities, who suspect these political figures may have instigated the actions of demonstrators in a bid to incite an unconstitutional regime change.
Multiple sources have identified these politicians as influential figures from Katsina, Kaduna, and Kano states, with reports indicating that they played significant roles in the controversial 2023 elections. The allegations suggest that they are involved in a scheme to promote unrest in the country, drawing parallels to events in other West African nations that have recently experienced coups, allegedly with the backing of Russian interests.
Security personnel noted that the protests, which began as expressions of frustration over economic hardship and governance issues, took a dangerous turn when demonstrators began waving Russian flags while chanting slogans demanding the resignation of President Bola Tinubu. In Kaduna, protesters were heard chanting in Hausa, “Tinubu ze soka’ kaa’sa,” which translates to, “Tinubu must step down.” This alarming display has been interpreted as a call for foreign intervention in Nigeria’s political affairs, mirroring tactics seen in countries like Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso.
In response to the situation, the Nigerian military has declared that displaying the Russian flag constitutes treason, with plans to prosecute those involved. Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, emphasized the seriousness of the matter following a National Security Council meeting where strategies to address the protests were discussed. He stated, “That is totally unacceptable… that is a treasonable offence, and it will be viewed and treated as such.”
The Department of State Services (DSS) has also reported the arrest of tailors in Kano State who were making Russian flags, further indicating the organized nature of this movement. Following these developments, state security forces have intensified their crackdown on protesters, resulting in a significant reduction in the number of demonstrators displaying the flags.
In Kano, Police Commissioner Salman Garba confirmed that several foreigners suspected of inciting the protests have been apprehended. He reiterated the commitment of law enforcement to uphold security and order in the state, which included a relaxation of the curfew to facilitate peaceful protests while maintaining public safety.
In Gombe State, police paraded ten individuals arrested for waving Russian flags during the protests, labeling their actions as disrespectful to Nigeria’s national symbols. Commissioner of Police Hayatu Usman condemned the use of foreign flags, stating, “This act not only disrespects our national symbols but also commits treasonable felony and related offences.”
The government’s response to the protests has included closed-door meetings among top intelligence and security officials, including President Tinubu and the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu. Although specific outcomes from these discussions remain undisclosed, they are believed to be linked to the ongoing protests and the government’s strategic response to them.
The DSS has reported progress in identifying the masterminds behind the display of Russian flags during the protests. DSS spokesman Peter Afunanya indicated that the agency is working meticulously to avoid jeopardizing ongoing investigations. He noted that the protests appear to be funded through unconventional channels, including virtual currencies, which complicates the tracking of financial support for the protests.
The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has also placed individuals believed to be orchestrating the protests from abroad on a watch list. Comptroller-General Kemi Nandap stated that these sponsors would be monitored closely and apprehended upon their return to Nigeria.
As the situation evolves, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, confirmed that trials for over 800 suspects arrested during the protests have commenced. He reassured the public that law enforcement has not resorted to excessive force during the protests, despite claims to the contrary.
In a show of solidarity, several groups have distanced themselves from the protesters waving Russian flags. The Take It Back Movement clarified that while they support the need for accountability, they do not endorse the use of foreign flags, emphasizing that such actions distract from their core demands for governance reforms.
Prominent socio-political organizations, such as Afenifere and the Pan-Niger Delta Forum, have condemned the actions of those waving foreign flags, calling for accountability from the government. They recognize the gravity of the situation and urge the authorities to take firm action against those perceived as threats to national stability.
As protests continue in various parts of Nigeria, the government faces the challenging task of addressing citizens’ grievances while ensuring national security and stability. The implications of these events could have lasting effects on Nigeria’s political landscape, particularly in the context of growing discontent among the populace.
The call for unity and dialogue remains critical as the nation navigates these tumultuous times, with leaders emphasizing the importance of lawful protest and respect for Nigeria’s democratic processes.
