The Russian government has clarified that it has no involvement in the recent protests in Nigeria following the display of Russian flags by demonstrators.
The statement, released by the Russian Embassy in Nigeria, emphasized that while Nigerians have the right to protest, Moscow remains uninvolved in the country’s governance.
The embassy’s remarks come in response to the appearance of the Russian flag at #EndBadGovernance protests across northern Nigeria.
The Russian Embassy in a statement on Monday, articulated, “The Embassy has noted reports in the Nigerian media and the circulation of videos and images in digital media depicting protesters in northern states 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,” the Embassy added.
Videos circulating on social media depict protesters carrying Russian flags and chanting slogans in support of Russian President Vladimir Putin.
The Russian Embassy stressed that these actions do not reflect the official stance or policy of the Russian government. It reaffirmed its respect for Nigerian democracy and the right to peaceful demonstrations, while condemning any violence or disruptions that may arise from such protests.
This situation has sparked debate among Nigerians, some of whom are concerned about the presence of Russian symbols in protests, amid allegations of Kremlin interference in neighboring West African nations like Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger.
The Russian government has reiterated its position of non-interference in the internal affairs of other states.
The Russian government added, “As always, we emphasise that Russia does not interfere in the domestic affairs of foreign states, including Nigeria. The intentions of some protesters to wave Russian flags are personal choices and do not reflect any official position or policy of the Russian government.
“We respect Nigerian democracy and believe that peaceful demonstrations in conformity with Nigerian law are a manifestation of democracy. However, should these events lead to any disruptions or acts of violence, we strictly condemn them.”
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