The Russian Embassy in Nigeria spoke on Monday about the use of its flag by #Endbadgovernance protesters in Northern Nigeria, News About Nigeria reports.
Speaking in a statement on Monday, the Embassy denied any involvement with the use of its flag by the protesters.
Recall that, protesters in some northern states in Nigeria were seen marching on the streets, carrying the Russian flag and chanting slogans, while others held placards with various messages.
Following this, there have been allegations that Russia has a hand in the ongoing protests, just like the coups that happened in other African countries like Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger.
Debunking this notion, Russia noted in the statement that it does not interfere in the internal affairs of other countries, including Nigeria, and that the protesters’ actions do not reflect any official Russian government policy or position.
The statement reads, “The Embassy has noted the reports in Nigerian media and the circulation of videos and images in digital media depicting protesters in northern states of the country 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. 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. 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.”
