Nationwide Protest: What Russia Said About Protesters Calling On President Putin

Russia has reacted to the use of its flag by some Nigerian youths who call on Russian President Putin as they protest against President Bola Tinubu’s government over poor governance.

The Russian Embassy in Nigeria issued a statement where it denied any involvement in the display of its flag by protesters in Nigeria.

It said, “The Embassy has noted reports and the circulation of videos and images in digital media depicting protesters in northern Nigeria carrying Russian flags and chanting slogans to Russian President Vladimir Putin. The Government of the Russian Federation and Russian officials are not involved in these activities and do not coordinate them in any way.

”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 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.”

The Embassy’s response follows reports of protesters in Nigeria waving Russian flags and chanting slogans, protesting the state of the economy, which has seen record-high prices of goods even as the federal government appears unbothered to do anything to meet the needs of the people.