The Russian Embassy in Nigeria has issued a statement distancing itself from a group of protesters in northern Nigeria who carried Russian flags and chanted slogans.
The embassy clarified that the protesters’ actions do not reflect the official Russian government policy or position, emphasizing that Russia does not interfere in the internal affairs of other countries, including Nigeria.
The protesters’ actions had sparked concerns about external interference in regional affairs, given Russia’s accused involvement in political upheavals in West African countries like Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger.
Nigeria’s Chief of Defence, General Chris Musa, has labelled the protesters’ actions as treasonable and warned that the law would catch up with them.
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The Russian Embassy expressed respect for Nigerian democracy and peaceful demonstrations but condemned any disruptions or acts of violence that may arise from such events.
The statement reads in part: “As always, we emphasize that 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 they do not reflect any official position or policy of the Russian Government in the issue.”
