Authorities Investigate Politicians Over Russian Flag Controversy During Protests
In recent developments, Nigeria’s security agencies have launched an investigation into at least four prominent politicians from the northern regions of the country, specifically Katsina, Kaduna, and Kano states. These politicians are suspected of playing a key role in the controversial use of Russian flags by #EndBadGovernance protesters, which some believe was aimed at promoting an unconstitutional regime change.
Sources revealed that these political figures, who were significantly involved in the previous year’s (2023) elections, have been linked to the provocative use of Russian symbols in the ongoing demonstrations. “The security agencies are closing in on these individuals,” a source, who wished to remain anonymous, stated.
The protests, initially driven by economic hardship and hunger, took a troubling turn on Monday when demonstrators in northern states began waving Russian flags and chanting anti-government slogans, including calls for President Tinubu’s resignation. In Kaduna, protesters were seen holding the Russian flag and chanting in Hausa, demanding military intervention.
This development is significant given Russia’s history of involvement in unconstitutional regime changes across West Africa, including in Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso. The Nigerian military has labeled the display of Russian flags as treasonous and has vowed to prosecute those involved. General Christopher Musa, Chief of Defence Staff, emphasized the severity of the offense after a National Security Council meeting led by President Bola Tinubu.
The Department of State Services (DSS) has reported arrests of tailors in Kano State involved in manufacturing the Russian flags, along with some of their sponsors. The DSS has also identified key figures behind the flag-waving but has chosen to withhold their identities to protect ongoing investigations. “The use of foreign flags not only disrespects our national symbols but constitutes a serious offense,” stated ASP Buhari Abdullahi during a press briefing.
In response to the unrest, state security forces have significantly reduced the number of protesters carrying Russian flags. In Kano, the police have detained several suspected foreign influencers behind the demonstrations, and security measures have been tightened, including a relaxation of the curfew.
President Tinubu has convened closed-door meetings with intelligence chiefs, including the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, and other key figures, to address the situation. The Nigeria Immigration Service has also placed foreign sponsors of the protests on a watch list, intending to intercept them upon their return to Nigeria.
Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, confirmed that trials for the arrested suspects have commenced, emphasizing that security forces have not used excessive force during the protests. Egbetokun highlighted that the police had not deployed live ammunition and had managed the situation with restraint, focusing on addressing criminal activities unrelated to the protests.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, and the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, have both affirmed their commitment to maintaining safety and order amid the ongoing unrest.
As the situation continues to develop, Nigerian authorities remain vigilant in their efforts to restore stability and prevent any further escalation of the protests.
Sourced from The Punch
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