Russian Embassy Denies Involvement in Nigerian Protests, Raises Concerns
The Russian Embassy in Nigeria has categorically denied any involvement or coordination in the activities of individuals seen waving Russian flags during the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protests across various regions of the country.
In an official statement released in Abuja on Monday, the embassy clarified that neither Russia government nor any of its representatives are connected to the actions of these demonstrators.
The protests, which erupted nationwide on Thursday, August 1, are a response to the ongoing hardships faced by the Nigerian populace.
The embassy, in its statement, reiterated, “The Government of the Russian Federation and all Russian officials are not involved in these activities and do not coordinate them in any capacity.
“As always, we want to emphasize that Russia does not interfere in the internal affairs of other nations, including Nigeria.”
The embassy attributed the use of Russia symbols by the protesters to individual decisions, emphasizing that these actions do not represent any official stance or policy of Russia.
“The choice of some protesters to wave Russian flags is a personal decision and does not reflect any official policy or position of Russia,” the embassy stated.
Furthermore, the statement expressed respect for Nigeria’s democratic processes, acknowledging the right to peaceful protest as a legitimate expression of democracy. However, the embassy firmly condemned any potential disruptions or acts of violence that could arise from these demonstrations.
“We respect Nigerian democracy and believe that peaceful protests in accordance with Nigerian law are a legitimate expression of democracy. However, we strongly condemn any disruptions or acts of violence that may occur as a result,” the statement concluded.
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